Arsenal Transfer Prospects: Does Wenger Need To Loan Out Kieran Gibbs?

Since arriving at Arsenal in 1996, Arsene Wenger has been renowned for establishing world-class full backs. Since Wenger's era began, the Gunners have always boasted formidable players at the position from the likes of Lauren, Ashley Cole, Sylvinho and Lee Dixon.

As the Frenchman was primarily one himself as a player, it comes as no surprise that the Arsenal tactician has a keen eye for establishing defensive talent. Even in the current Arsenal squad, Wenger has a superb array of full backs at his disposal.

French duo Bacary Sagna and Gael Clichy, who are the predominant first-choice right and left backs, are touted as two of world football's strongest players at their positions. Their deputies are just as strong—Ivorian Emmanuel Eboue is an experienced, versatile player whilst deputy left back Kieran Gibbs in an England international at only 21.

Gibbs emerged in the season of 2008/2009 after Clichy sustained a injury in the latter half of the campaign. The Englishman has been used sparingly by Wenger, predominantly gaining opportunities in Arsenal's League Cup campaign.

However, as Arsenal entered a frantic March to May madness, Gibbs impressed, conveying superb maturity at a young age and proving that he was a more than capable left back.

The young gun ended the season with 21 appearances for the Arsenal and fans were overjoyed at the emergence of yet another quality left back.

This followed with a promising preseason in the build up to 2009/2010. However, Gael Clichy was still the first choice and more experienced left back which ensured the former Wimbledon youth saw only a handful of playing time in the opening months.

Unfortunately, a broken metatarsal terminated Gibbs' season in November but another strong preseason alongside some impressive performances when Clichy was rested saw the 21 year old receive a call-up to the English national squad.

But despite his rapid rise, the young gun struggles to play consistent football which ultimately tarnishes his development. The former Norwich loanee has featured a mere 14 times this season, predominantly in domestic cup competitions. Gibbs' lack of confidence is evidently a factor of his lack of playing time.

There is no denying the English international has talent alongside pace, versatility and strength but as Wenger has been tentative to grant Gibbs an extended run in the Premier League, it raises the question, does Kieran Gibbs need to be loaned out?

A number of Premier League clubs would lavish the opportunity to boast Gibbs' presence in their squad and it would undoubtedly enhance the Englishman's development. Although the loan move may have to await until next season, Arsene Wenger has two other left backs returning to the Emirates after loan spells.

Frenchman Armand Traore, who is with Italian giants Juventus and Brazilian speedster Pedro Botelho, who is currently with Spanish Segunda side FC Cartagena (and has been on loan since 2007) are both returning, which should enable Gibbs to depart on loan as the Gunners meanwhile maintain defensive depth.

Last season saw English teenager Jack Wilshere experience a Premier League loan spell after failing to receive consistent playing time—and the young gun has now become one of the best midfielders in the EPL. Gibbs would thrive under the experience and benefit of playing week in, week out.

However, an injury to Clichy is always an ever present possibility. Real Madrid and Inter Milan have also been keen admirers of the French left back, which could spark a huge offer and sale, which would ultimately mean the elevation of Gibbs to first choice.

So does Kieran Gibbs need a loan spell?