Arsenal Transfer Prospects: Should Wenger Target Oceania Trio?

Not only is the World Cup an exciting, breathtaking experience filled with tears, joy, and embarrassment, but it also offers managers the chance to find raw talent and quality. With 32 teams vying for the trophy there is bound to be a player capable of filling the void in any managers team.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger would be one man closely watching each team's progress. The Frenchman is in need of some reinforcements to bolster his youthful squad. Wenger is in the market for all types of players ranging from a reliable keeper to a star-studded striker.

New Zealand and Australia were both representing the Oceania region with great pride. Unfortunately the pair failed to arise out of their respective group stages, but both did perform gallantly, especially New Zealand. Both teams had underrated, unnoticed players eager to make impacts and hopefully boost their chances of playing in the bigger, better leagues.

After solid campaign a number of players have emerged, from both sides as prospects for big clubs. Furthermore with Wenger hunting for talented players, the Frenchman is sure to be monitoring players and this raises the question, should Wenger target some standout performers from the Oceania region?

Three players that Wenger could benefit from their services are:

1. Winston Reid

The Danish may have to take credit for Reid's talent, as the 21-year-old grew up in Denmark and established himself as a talented defender. Nonetheless, after making himself available for the All Whites almost moments before the World Cup began, Winston Reid enjoyed a stellar World Cup were he impressed greatly in the Kiwis defence.

Not only was he a solid contributor to the defence, the FC Midtjylland defender scored New Zealand's first ever World Cup goal with his last gasp equalizer against Slovakia. There were half-hearted rumours claiming Arsenal and others were slightly interested in the 6'3" Kiwi but nothing has really materialized.

However, Reid would be a smart buy for the Gunners as he is unlikely to cost a bundle. He possess great height and strength and is versatile enough to be played anywhere across the back line. At 21 Reid can already boast five years of experience at the top level in Denmark. Furthermore he is also a fearless leader.

2. Brett Holman

The Australian came of age during the FIFA 2010 World Cup. Appearing in all of Australia's matches as well as notching a highly impressive two goals. The 26-year-old does seem an unlikely option for the Gunners but after a strong season with AZ Alkmaar in the Dutch League, Holman could prove a cheap, beneficial buy.

Holman is blessed with an intelligent footballing brain as well as a decisive passing game. He boast solid strength and power and is capable of filling a number of positions.

3. Mark Paston

The New Zealand keeper was superb for the All Whites, especially against World champions Italy. Paston made a number of freakish saves that help ensure New Zealand recorded a draw against the defending champions.

At 33, Paston is experienced and knowledgeable and would prove as the perfect back-up keeper for the Gunners.

With Lukasz Fabianski and Vito Mannone all requiring loan spells this season, and Manuel Almunia likely to be sold, the Wellington Phoenix shot stopper would provide a cheap, short term replacement which would not require a ton of playing time.