Wenger Transfer Watch: The Clock Is Ticking, The Wallet Is Opening

“He that can have patience can have what he will.” Benjamin Franklin

While the boys, girls (and footballers) frolic in the snow, Arsène Wenger is in no doubt gearing up for a busy week in the January transfer market. While the papers and fans throw further ammunition at a stigma in regards to Wenger’s spending habits, the Frenchman has proved and will prove once again that his eyes are always open.

The boss’ record in the winter transfer market over the past few years speaks for itself, late transfers highlighting the tactical nous that is not only needed on the pitch, but off the pitch too. In January 2006, Wenger invested big money and faith in a long-term project to develop football’s next big star; Theo Walcott. After years of maturity and the past year of uncertainty regarding the next stage in his career, the current club top scorer has proved to be a risk worth taking.

But try telling that the army of impatient Gooners expecting a quick-fix signing that will get the spring back in the legs of the frustrated fans. A signing like the one of Andrei Arshavin in 2009 was aesthetically pleasing in both a world class player joining the club, as well as the falling snowflakes which coated the already frozen (literally and figuratively) Emirates Stadium. The buzz of someone who, half a year previously, had got football fanatics off their seats and open-mouthed in appreciation from his genius, is enough to change a team’s season. Experienced, exciting and with an aura of the best, a signing in the mould of the then world-renowned Russian wouldn’t go down badly in the red half of North London.

“He’s messing with our heads!” “We won’t sign anyone!” “Why so late?” The pessimism from Arsenal fans is somewhat surprising, as they never seem to learn the manner in which their long-serving manager conducts his business. Late and in detail. The days of carefully picking the right player to add to the squad for the right price are still looming over the club, Wenger constantly reiterating that “We work very hard,” on signings. But who fits the Frenchman’s criteria at this critical point in the season? Who is out there that is better than the current playing squad when you set your mind to it?

Mohamed Diame is a name proposed from West Ham. Strong, good tackle and goals to go with it, he could add to Arsenal a defensive aspect to their midfield that takes the pressure off the inconsistent Abou Diaby. A striker to take the burden off the trio of Walcott, Giroud and Podolski in the form of David Villa would give the club a case of deja vù. A world class player ready to ply his trade in the Premier League, the goal machine would give Arsenal that world class touch that could fire them back into the top-four and push their cup chances to the max. Not good enough? Don’t worry, I hear a certain ex-captain is feeling unhappy in Barcelona.

Arsène. Over to you.

Who would Arsenal fans like to see signed before the window slams shut? Get involved in the comments section below.