5 World Cup Stars Arsenal Should Consider This Summer

With Arsenal being constantly linked with top class players from all over the globe, Gunner333 gives us 5 players who have caught the eye so far at the World Cup who could be useful additions to Arsene Wenger’s squad.

Although still within the premature stages of World Cup fever, a number of international talents have already caught the eye. The domestic season may be dormant, but many Premier League clubs will be on the look out talent, with Arsenal being no exception. Here, after the first round of group clashes, I analyse those star men for their nations to date, which could complete the complex Arsenal puzzle.

5. Juan Cuadrado- Colombia- Fiorentina

After Bacary Sagna recently swapped London life to fill the bench for Man City, the long-time Arsenal server has departed, leaving a large whole in Arsenal’s back-line. Fortunately, there are many candidates to fit the bill and few are more suited than Juan Guillermo Cuadrado. Bolstering pace and skill, the Colombian is able to play as a solid full-back but is also capable of playing further forwards as a wing-back or wide-midfielder.

So far in the World Cup he has looked sharp and played a large part in his side’s 3-0 win over Greece on Saturday, setting up two of the goals. With a solid, calm temperement coupled with his speed and flair, this is one World Cup star who could make a real difference to the current Gunners side.

4. Alexis Sanchez- Chile- FC Barcelona

Yet another fast paced South American is Chile attacker, Alexis Sanchez. After enjoying his highest scoring season for Barcelona last campaign, he is sure to be near the top of the list for a number of clubs this summer. Arsenal’s play in the deep final-third has lacked pace of-late with Walcott’s long-term absence, but the addition of Sanchez could supply us with a whole new style of play.

In the tournament to date Alexis has chalked up one assist and has also converted one himself, making him one of the most prolific players after the first set of fixtures. His goal against Australia mirrored a typical poacher’s finish and only heightened the range of attacking styles this young man possesses. Wenger would have to be certain of this signing however, as the Chilean won’t come cheap with his valuation likely to be in excess of £30m.

3. James Rodriguez- Colombia- AS Monaco

Many may be surprised to see a player in Rodriguez’ position on this list, given our current golden crop of midfield talent rendering it near impossible for another playmaker to step into the frame. However, if we were to splash out on this dynamic attacker, I feel he could be played ultimately as a frontman, with all the physical aspects of the position already clearly held by the Colombian.

In the South American side’s clash with the Greeks, Rodriguez looked like he dictated the play from the off and ran in behind men regularly to create a number of attacking opportunities. His well-executed finish capped off a great day’s work and there is surely plenty more to come from the midfielder-cum-forward in the remainder of the tournament as well as seasons ahead. Signed only last season by big-spenders Monaco though, Rodriguez would be difficult to acquire this summer.

2. Karim Benzema- France- Real Madrid

Anyone who knows their football should know this man inside-out, but for those who don’t already appreciate the talent of Benzema, they should do now. The forward was sensational in Les Bleus’ opener and he would no doubt be an excellent addition alongside fellow compatriot Olivier Giroud.

Denied a hat trick only by the fumbling fingers of Honduras keeper Valladares, the Frenchman’s potential third was chalked out by the dubious goals panel for an OG. Despite this, Benzema performed exceptionally well and tucked away a sublime finish for his second that only the best would convert.

We’ve been strongly linked with the 26-year-old in recent transfer windows and he’s again being touted as a possible signing this summer, but not only will he command a huge price tag, but it is unlikely Real would give him up without a fight.

1. Daley Blind- Ajax- Netherlands

In all honesty, I knew very little of this Dutch wonder-kid before this tournament, but I am now a massive fan. The looping ball he unleashed to set-up former Gunners forward RVP for his goal the other night was just a taster of this boy’s talent. He dug deep throughout the full ninety, frequently dispossessing the likes of Xavi and Silva to name a couple.

It is apparent he performed well in Eredivise last season, converting just the once, but ultimately playing a vital role in front of Ajax’ defence or at full-back. With two assists to his name in Brazil so far and a clinical tactical awareness, Blind would be ideal to fit our holding midfield conundrum. His addition would supply us with a strong, fast athlete that played a pivotal role in the dethroning of the reigning World Champions Spain!

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