Transfer Story
Arsene Wenger was critical of the transfer market when asked about the recent blockbuster Neymar transfer to Paris Saint Germain. The wily Frenchman believes in a philosophy so many managers, and indeed, clubs, do not seem to understand. He said the transfer was “Beyond Rationality”. Mr Wenger surely knows well about how times change and yes, he has grown wise to certain things, but most importantly for Arsenal fans, those things do not include spending big in the market for a marquee player. Yes, he swooped in on the likes of Lacazette, Sanchez, Ozil, Xhaka and Mustafi. But those deals were no brainers in terms of Value, adding quality and class to his squad.
Recent rumours, the ones which are linking Arsenal with a deal for PSG playmaker Julian Draxler, should, of course, be taken with a pinch of salt. However, if Wenger were to bid for the German, it would mean Arsenal have acquired a potentially world-class player for an admittedly nominal fee in this market. Draxler’s playing time will definitely take a hit after the Neymar transfer and the German is not one to sit on the bench.
PSG have indicated that he is available for 32m Pounds, having arrived at the Parc des Princes just seven months ago. Arsenal will be facing stiff competition from rivals Liverpool for his signature. Jurgen Klopp has been an admirer for a quite a while now.
What he Brings to Arsenal
The 23-year-old would represent a great addition to an attack already stacked with world class performers. At the Emirates, Draxler can look forward to linking up with fellow countryman Mesut Ozil and the likes of Alexis Sanchez and new recruit Alexandre Lacazette. Draxler can also shoulder the playmaking duties on those days where Ozil just seems to doze off. Indeed, last season, Arsenal’s creator-in-chief was so ineffective in matches, it was almost like the Gunners were playing with ten men. Julian Draxler may not have the keen eye for a defence-splitting pass, but he certainly can develop himself under the tutelage of Arsene Wenger, who has developed some of the greatest players football has ever seen.
Wenger can also fit in Draxler seamlessly into his line-up. In the current 3-4-2-1 formation, Draxler can play up top as the false 9, or in the attacking duo just behind the striker. He can also play in the wingback role when Arsenal need a goal or two and defence isn’t a priority.
After arriving in January, Draxler scored 4 goals and assisted one in the French Ligue 1. He was instrumental in the 4-0 thrashing dished out to FC Barcelona in the home leg of the tie. (via whoscored)
