Arsenal fans might not like it, but the odds are that stalwart gaffer Arsene Wenger will stay on for two more years beyond this season, with multiple reports suggesting the Frenchman has been tempted by a £200m transfer war chest.
That figure could depend on a few big names bolting from the Emirates during the summer, so Wenger looks to have quite a rebuilding job on his hands.
Here’s where we think the money should go:
Goalkeeper – Jack Butland
The England stopper’s March 2016 injury coincided with Stoke – who had won four of their previous six Premier League matches – taking just two points from their next six, conceding 16 goals during that run.
Butland has not played since, but the 24-year-old is edging back to fitness and enjoyed a run out for the Potters’ U23 side earlier this week.
With potentially a decade of football left in the Bristolian, it’s no surprise to hear of Arsenal’s interest.
Sunderland’s Jordan Pickford has also been mentioned as a possible replacement for waning number one Petr Cech, but his relative inexperience may prove prohibitive.
Left-back – Ricardo Rodriguez
It appears neither Nacho Monreal nor Kieran Gibbs command the confidence of their manager, with Wenger flitting between the two for important matches since the turn of the year.
Arsenal, Manchester United, Chelsea and Liverpool have all been linked with Swiss international wing-back and set-piece expert Rodriguez – who’s still only 24 – over the past couple of years.
Wolfsburg have proved reluctant to sell in the past, but with no prospect of Champions League football in Lower Saxony next season, the timing could be right for a move.
Midfielder – Leon Goretzka
This 22-year-old Schalke man’s versatility would be welcome in north London, with Goretzka comfortable as a midfield anchor, on the wing and in a playmaking role.
Losing either Mesut Ozil or Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain would force Arsenal to seek cover in these positions, and Goretzka – who has already turned out three times for world champions Germany – could prove a steal at £25m-£30m.
Striker – Alexandre Lacazette
The Gunners’ decision not to pursue Lacazette last summer looks extremely foolish, with the 25-year-old just one goal off matching his best seasonal haul, bagging 30 so far this term.
Lyon are not likely to let their star man to go for much less than £50m, but substantial attacking reinforcements may be required at the Emirates next term, especially if Alexis Sanchez and/or Ozil leave London.
