Arsenal Transfer News: Gunners Must Go All Out for Gonzalo Higuain

Arsene Wenger's philosophy has long been to develop within Arsenal, while keeping the spending on big stars to a minimum.

But that philosophy appears to be changing this summer. Arsenal chief executive Ivan Gazidis has assured that Wenger will have money available, as long as the Gunners receive top talent in return, per ESPNFC.com.

Who better to pay big money for than Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain?

According to Sam Limbert of ESPNFC.com, Higuain has been linked to a move to Arsenal this summer. The Gunners are reportedly facing competition from Serie A powerhouse Juventus for the 25-year-old.

This is the time for Wenger and Co. to make their mark. If Arsenal really wants to prove it's going after a Premier League championship—and nothing less—landing Higuain would be a commanding statement to the rest of England and the world.

Higuain has developed into one of the most dangerous strikers in the world. Last season at Madrid, he posted 16 goals and five assists in just 28 games (19 starts). He's in his prime, ready to do more damage on the pitch moving forward.

The reality is, when Arsenal lost Robin van Persie to Manchester United last summer, a hole opened up front that never was completely filled. The Gunners did well to finish strong, grabbing a top-four spot n the EPL, but if they expect to contend for the title, they have to replace the star power vacated by van Persie.

Arsenal hasn't won the EPL since 2003-04, but has been close, posting one second-place finish and three third-place finishes. A player of Higuain's caliber has the potential to boost Wenger's club back to the top of one of the most competitive leagues in football. 

At this point, it's a no-brainer: Arsenal must pursue Higuain at all costs or risk falling just short once again.