Monaco midfielder hands in transfer request to join Arsenal?

25 November 2014 03:18

The troubled Gunners can't wait for the new transfer window to grab in-form stars, with five first team players currently injured. Manchester United loss was a more reason for changes at the Emirates – in the squad and among the staff.

'Thanks for everything, Arsene, but it's time to leave now.' This sentence has been on the lips of the London clubs fans, even before they won the FA Cup this spring. Trophy drought was the clubs biggest problem since 2005 and was finally resolved after beating Hull in the FA Cup final six months ago.

But it's as if breaking the trophy deadlock hasn't changed anything, the squad now sits in 8th place in the Premier League table. Failing to beat a vulnerable United increased tensions, as Alexis and Co. only managed to put one past a weak Red Devils defense. Don't get me wrong, United fans. I think we would agree on Paddy McNair and Tyler Blackett not being van Gaal's strongest links.

With all this in mind, Arsenal must continue their fight with the available players despite disappointing the fans too much in this three-month period. Wenger might see the answers in youngsters, but supporters want transfers and that's what they'll get.

Mikel Arteta is likely to become second club captain to leave in a short period. Vermaelen joined Barcelona, whilst the Spaniard has 18 more months remaining on the contract. The French gaffer doesn't like working with veterans, so let's assume there's not going to be a new contract signed.

This opens the gate for unhappy Monaco star and Arsenal transfer target - Joao Moutinho. The £18m Portuguese is special for being able to play on various positions; as a central, defensive, attacking midfielder and on both flanks. And has now, reportedly, handed in a transfer request.

Monaco's No.8 previously represented two Primiera clubs, Sporting and Porto. It was in Lisbon where he'd step up and perform at his best over a five-year period in which Moutinho scored 21 goals. The midfielder appeared in 76 games for the Portugal national team and it is time for Wenger to start considering the possibility of Moutinho's arrival or himself departing.

Source: DSG