Arsenal Transfer Rumors: Selling Alex Song Wouldn't Make Sense

The transfer of Robin van Persie was inevitable at Arsenal. He no longer wanted to do things the "Arsenal way," and fans had grown frustrated with his change of heart.

However, selling midfielder Alex Song to Barcelona would make no sense.

That's right, Barca may end up landing Song for somewhere in the range of €18 million this summer, according to ESPN.

My question is, why would Arsene Wenger ever think about selling the 24-year-old?

In losing Van Persie, the Gunners not only lost their top goal scorer, they lost a guy who was second on the club with nine assists. Now you're going to sell a guy who led your club in assists with 11?

Contact me when this starts making sense.

Song has been known at the Emirates for his all-around game ever since he broke out in the 2009-2010 campaign. He not only has the ability to be an asset on defense, he's emerged as one of the best holding midfielders in the Premier League. His ability to retain possession with his ball skills has made him a fan favorite and his durability and energy makes him a threat every time he touches the ball.

On top of that, he's still relatively young at 24 years of age, meaning he still has room to grow. 

Some may blame Wenger for losing Van Persie, but I don't. The time had come for Arsenal and the superstar striker to part ways. That much was evident when Wenger went out and got Lukas Podolski, Olivier Giroud and Santi Cazorla, and Van Persie still wanted out.

Having said that, I will blame Wenger if he sells Song, as should Arsenal's fanbase. There is rebuilding, and then there is putting yourself in a hole that will set you back for a while. Given Song told Sky Sports that he's happy at Arsenal (via ESPN), there's absolutely no reason for Wenger to make this move.

I could see why Wenger would go through with the transfer, though. He's always preferred to put a few pieces together for a bargain, and given Song's supposed return, he'd have quite a bit of money to throw around before the 2012-2013 campaign started.

However, sometimes it's worth keeping a strong player, no matter the reward. Song has established himself as a standout player for Arsenal. More importantly, he's shown loyalty to the club with his statements this summer.

Selling Song to Barcelona would be a big mistake.