Arsenal Transfer Rumors:10 Players Wenger Needs Before the Window Closes

After Arsenal ended the 2009/2010 season failing to secure silverware, putting the Gunners at five seasons without a trophy, manager Arsene Wenger vowed to implement changes into his youthful squad in hopes it would reinstate Arsenal dominance.

Fans were aroused with excitement when notified of Wenger's plans, and many thought a quality keeper, two strong defenders, and maybe even a world-class midfielder were on their way to the Emirates in the coming weeks.

Sadly this has not been the case this Summer. So far during the transfer window Wenger has signed imposing striker Marouane Chamakh from Bordeaux and little known French defender Laurent Koscienly from FC Lorient.

With the Summer transfer window on its last legs, time is running out for Wenger to secure more quality services. What's worse is the Frenchman fails to have any real leads with any players.

So without further ado, here are 10 players Wenger needs before the summer window closes for good.

10. Pepe Reina

The Liverpool shot stopper is regarded as one of the best keepers in the world.

Although he looms as a hugely unlikely option for the Gunners, the Spaniard would be an immense signing, and would undoubtedly see an end to Arsenal keeping woes.

9. Shay Given

The 34-year-old Given would be an ideal quality keeper signing for the Gunners. Overflowing with experience, the Irishman would be the reliable, dominating presence in goal that Arsenal sourly lack.

Furthermore, the Manchester City keeper would allow boom youngsters Vito Mannone and Wojciech Szczensy to further their development on loan spells before returning ready to take up the number one role.

Given has hinted that a move away from the Eastlands may be on the table if he is no longer seen as the dominant keeper at City. 

8. Joe Hart

The young Englishman enjoyed a stellar 2009/2010 whilst away on loan with surprise packages Birmingham City. Now back at Manchester City, Hart's future is still unclear.

The 23-year-old would be a strong signing providing quality in between the sticks. Blessed with great reflexes and safe hands, Hart is touted as the next best keeper in Europe.

7. Per Mertesacker

The giant German defender has been highly sought after by a number of clubs who long for the Werder Bremen defender's signature. With Wenger opting not to re-sign a number of experienced defenders, the Gunners are low on defensive ranks, and many feel that if they want to have any hope of a strong title challenge, quality defensive reinforcements need to be made.

Mertesacker's signature would signal an end to any doubts or criticism over the Arsenal defence due to his huge 6'6" presence and his strong tackling and heading.

6. Giorgio Chiellini

The tenacious Italian would be another much needed defensive signing.

Boasting great height and strength as well as leadership and solid control, the 25-year-old would no doubt form a solid partnership beside Thomas Vermaelen, and he would strengthen the Arsenal trophy shout.

5. Phil Jagielka

The Everton fullback has been a consistent performer over recent seasons which has seen him earn his way into the England National Team. A strong, aggressive defender with great Premier League experience, Jagielka would be an ideal signing as he knows how to perform in the Premier League.

The Englishman has reportedly been on Wenger's radar with the Frenchman even lodging a £15 million bid, but it was declined by David Moyes.

4. Neven Subotic

The 21-year-old Subotic is a highly touted defender who has been an impressive performer in the German Leagues for some time now.

The Serbian back has been linked with a number of big name clubs, but is currently yet to move from current club Borussia Dortmund.

3. Keisuke Honda

The Japanese midfielder enjoyed an eye-catching World Cup that followed up a strong season with Russian giants CSKA Moscow. The 24-year-old Honda is a quick, intelligent midfielder who would be an adequate signing for Cesc Fabregas' eventual departure.

Blessed with versatility, flair, and an incisive passing range, Honda would be a welcome addition.

2. Mesut Ozil

One of the standout performers during the 2010 Word Cup, the 21-year-old Ozil would be a sensational replacement for the likely departure of captain Cesc Fabregas at the end of the season.

Blessed with immense pace, balance, and creativity, Arsenal need to act quick to sign this Werder Bremen starlet.

1.Yoann Gourcuff

The immensely talented midfielder had another strong season with French giants Bordeaux, and is emerging as the favourite to replace the Arsenal captain. The 23-year-old is fast and ambidextrous, with an incisive passing game and impressive vision.

Similar to Arsenal starlet Samir Nasri, the Frenchman can be played along the midfield or as a winger and second striker. Many clubs are chasing the former AC Milan playmaker, but with Arsenal set to have cash to spend, Yoann Gourcuff looks the best replacement for Cesc.