Arsenal Transfer Prospects: The Top 15 Players Wenger Can Target from the EPL
Arsenal's futile season has somehow worsened, with the North London giants now destined to conclude 2010/2011 in an immensely disturbing fourth place ensuring qualification into the prestigious UEFA Champions League must be earned during the opening stages of next season.
In a season where for the predominant period Arsene Wenger's side conveyed a strong footballing approach, progressing to the Carling Cup Final and enjoying a thrilling two leg battle with recently crowned English Premier League winners Manchester United in the EPL title race.
However, after the Gunners' horrific defeat at the hands of Birmingham City in the Carling Cup Final in the final days of February signified a tumultuous demise which exposed Arsenal psychologically with Wenger's young guns eliminated from all competitions and now sitting in fourth place of the English Premier League.
The 2010/2011 campaign was set to be the season where Arsenal eradicated their notorious five year trophy drought. Wenger's young squad, which the Frenchman had developed and nurtured for some time now by neglecting purchasing quality, big name players, had the ability to succeed in all competitions.
There is no denying Arsenal's attacking talent and array of magical players, but it is clear vital pieces are missing in this fragile puzzle. Defensively, Arsenal are weak; their inability to deal with set pieces and corners alongside continual lapses in concentration and an unorganised off side trap have all diminished the Gunner's title contentions.
Furthermore, although the starting XI is one of the best in World Football, Wenger appears to boast a distinct lack of depth in his squad with the level between the starters and the reserves growing. This has resulted in the Arsenal faithful turning desperately to the upcoming Summer Transfer Window as the potential saviour to Arsenal's fortunes.
If Wenger is able to cure the one or two lingering problems, then there is every chance the Gunners can return to the glory days of the early 2000's. But the French tactician has a tendency to be weak during the transfer window despite Wenger vowing to implement changes.
Too often, the Arsenal manager opts for the cheaper option predominantly from the French League. It is clear Wenger needs to secure the services of a quality player who has Premier League experiences. Granted it will probably come at a more expensive sale than what the Frenchman desires, but with the need for success intensifying, it is time Wenger finally bought some EPL talent.
Therefore, this article shows the top 15 players Wenger can target in the English Premier League.
No particular order
Brede Hangeland-Fulham
1 of 15
Defenders are the priority for Wenger, and one player who could provide the physical muscle the Arsenal back line requires is Fulham enforcer Brede Hangeland. An often underrated presence in the Premier League, the Norwegian centre half has been at the heart of the Fulham defence for numerous seasons now, thwarting some of the best attackers in World Football.
Wenger has long been a keen admirer of the 29-year-old, and the Norway international has heavily linked with a move to the Gunners in both 2009 and 2010. An imposing figure at 6'4", Hangeland boasts a superb aerial threat on both a defensive and attacking basis alongside impressive organisational ability and natural leadership.
By no means an expensive option for Arsene Wenger, with the former F.C. Copenhagen defender unlikely to arouse over £12 million.
Steven N'Zonzi-Blackburn
2 of 15
The Arsenal midfield was also scrutinized during the Gunner's demise, particularly when injuries to key play makers materialized. The lack of midfield depth proved costly for Arsenal at pivotal times during the campaign, with many voicing their concern to the inability to cope physically with some sides.
Defensively, there have been calls for new presence needed, and a viable option is giant Blackburn midfielder Steven N'Zonzi. The 22-year-old has excelled since arriving to the EPL last season and is renowned as one of the fans favourite players as Ewood Park for his no nonsense yet elegant midfield play.
Many have likened the Frenchman to former Arsenal captain and legend Patrick Vieira and it is speculated Arsene Wenger is highly interested in purchasing N'Zonzi. The French U-21 star would provide greater depth and strength to the Arsenal midfield and would greatly mitigate the short term departures of Alexandre Song and Emmanuel Frimpong when the African duo depart to the African Cup of Nations.
Rumoured to command around £7-11 million.
Robert Huth-Stoke City
3 of 15
A true no nonsense, tough and physical central defender, Robert Huth could be just what the Arsenal defence requires to erode their lingering inability to manage against rougher opponents. The former Chelsea defender has endured a career blighted by injury but has returned strongly since joining Stoke City in 2009.
The 26-year-old, who boasts sufficient English Premier League experience having began his career with Chelsea, does have a tendency to commit precarious fouls which border on illegal. However, the German is an imposing presence whose approach to defending could easily help diminish the feeble Arsenal mentality.
Although Stoke City and Arsenal do not share the most jubilant of affairs, Huth has desires of returning to UEFA Champions League football, and if the right price is there, it is likely Tony Pulis will accept.
Roger Johnson-Birmingham City
4 of 15
Birmingham's heart and sould defensively. Johnson has been a consistent force for the Blues as they continually defy the odds and maintain their presence in the English Premier League. An intelligent, experienced centre half, the 28-year-old would be an ideal defensive presence for the Gunners.
The Englishman constantly thwarted the Arsenal attack during the Carling Cup final and is renowned for his impressive aerial ability and speed for a big figure. Johnson has been linked with the Gunners previously, along with a number of other sides, including Liverpool and Tottenham. The former Cardiff City defender appears likely to depart St Andrew's at the conclusion of the season ranging between £8-13 million.
Martin Olsson-Blackburn
5 of 15
With veteran Arsenal left back Gael Clichy boasting an uncertain future at the Emirates, Wenger is rumoured to be eyeing a replacement left back should the Frenchman commit from the speculated offers from the likes of Real Madrid, Juventus and Inter Milan.
Wenger does have promising English international Kieran Gibbs at his disposal, but many feel the Englishman lacks the quality and experience at this point in time. Furthermore, Gibb's true calling lies in the midfield. However, a cheap, effective option to rival Gibbs as the left back should Clichy depart is Martin Olsson.
The 23-year-old is a consistent performer for Blackburn with the Swede progressing strongly since arriving as a 17-year-old in 2006. Experienced, composed and quick, Olsson would be a relatively cheap signing who would strengthen Arsenal's defensive depth.
Mikel Arteta-Everton
6 of 15
Mikel Arteta has long been touted as one of the best replacements for the eventual departure of Arsenal captain Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona. It is still unclear whether the Spaniard will depart the Emirates at the conclusion of the season, along with fellow playmaker Samir Nasri.
If either of the midfielders does leave Wenger's roster, then Arteta's services could become vital. An intelligent, incisive midfielder whose playmaking ability have been present throughout his six year tenure at Everton.
With over 150 appearances in the Premier League, leadership credential and one of the most composed attacking heads in England, the 29-year-old could be a superb signing for the Gunners. Although there is questions over his fitness and cost, David Moyes's side is rumoured to be willing to offload their big name players in order to free financial space.
Leighton Baines-Everton
7 of 15
Staying with Everton. As mentioned, previously Gael Clichy's presence in North London is frail, and there is no denying that the ideal replacement would be the Toffee's Leighton Baines. The Englishman is regarded as one of the best left backs in the English Premier League and is rumoured to be on the exit of Goodison Park.
Wenger has expressed his interest in signing the 26-year-old alongside Liverpool and Manchester City, who are rumoured to be readying a £25 million bid for the English international. Boasting over 190 appearances in the English Premier League, the former Wigan Atheltic full back is blessed with speed and strength furthered by superb attacking prowess.
Gary Cahill-Bolton
8 of 15
Cahill has long been earmarked as a future Arsenal signing thanks to his consistently strong performances for Bolton. A powerful, efficient defender whose tenacity would be invaluable at the Emirates. The 25-year-old was strongly linked with a move to Wenger last season but it is believed the speculation will intensify during the Summer.
The English international is still a young prospect yet boast incredible Premier League experience and is renowned as one of the toughest English defenders. What's promising for Wenger is Cahill's admiration of the Gunners, which he has publicly admitted alongside his desire to join the Red and White.
Bolton manager Owen Coyle is believed to be considering up to £15 million for his fearless back, which highlights Cahill's ability; however, Wenger is believed to be offering young gun Kyle Bartley on loan, which could cheapen the price.
Hugo Rodallega-Wigan Athletic
9 of 15
Wigan Athletic managed to reignite their feeble chances of relegation with a gallant 3-2 win over West Ham United. However, there is still a strong chance that the Latic's will endure relegation, with the final match approaching against Stoke City. Regardless of how Roberto Martinez's men perform, though, it is certain the Hugo Rodallega will depart the DW Stadium during the Summer.
With Andrei Arshavin and Nicklas Bendtner both under speculation of their future with Wenger, few can envision a more suitable forward replacement than Wigan's Rodallega. The 25-year-old has somehow managed to thrive in a dismantled Wigan attack for three seasons now.
Twenty one goals in 91 appearances highlights how the Colombian has managed to maintain efficiency despite the lack of attacking array around him. Rodallega would arrive cheaply, and one can only imagine what the Colombian international would be capable of with the Arsenal attack.
Charlie Adam-Blackpool
10 of 15
Blackpool to face uncertainty over their future in the Premier League with the Seasiders facing a tough challenge against Champions Manchester United in order to secure their place for next season. Regardless too, however, is the future of fearless captain Charlie Adam, who is destined to part with Blackpool at the end of the season.
Currently pursued by almost every Premier League outfit, the Scottish international is exactly what the Arsenal midfield requires, a tough, composed, creative flair who provides monumental defensive support. The 25-year-old has enjoyed a stellar first season in the EPL, amassing 35 appearances and 12 goals.
Liverpool and Tottenham are rumoured to be the front runners for the former Rangers midfielder, but there is every chance Arsenal would be able to convince Adam of a move to London.
Christopher Samba-Blackburn
11 of 15
The giant Blackburn captain is another player who desires a move to the Emirates. The DR Congo international was reportedly tremendously close to signing with the Gunner's during the recent January transfer window, and it is easy to see why Wenger is keen on the African enforcer.
The 27-year-old is one of the quickest and biggest defenders in the Premier League. At 6'4", Samba would help diminish the frailties Arsenal possess from set pieces and corners whilst combining his speed and tenacity to combat any weakness Arsenal possess on the ground.
Blackburn are rumoured to desire a heavy fee should their leader depart, but Wenger has funds, and if others depart, it does not pose as a problem for the Frenchman.
Phil Jagielka-Everton
12 of 15
Another defender who Wenger has been a notable admirer of. Jageilka has constantly kept the Everton back line intact with his impressive speed and deceptive strength. Not the tallest of central defenders but arguably one of the most organised, intelligent and composed centre halves in England.
Courageous and experienced on the EPL and international scale, Wenger reportedly made a £14 million bid for the Englishman last Summer. It is believed Wenger may continue to chase David Moyes' defensive leader, and no one's arguing why.
Scott Parker-West Ham
13 of 15
West Ham admitted to relegation during the weekend, which provided heart break for the fans whilst salivation for every other side in the English Premier League. Captain Scott Parker, who has arguably been the midfielder of the season despite the Hammer's tragedy, stated he would depart Upton Park if the London club were relegated.
The Englishman is now chased by every side in the EPL, and fortunately, Arsenal are said to be serious contenders as the 30-year-old aims for UEFA Champions League honours. A tough yet intelligent midfielder whose energy and efforts are exemplary week in week out, blessed with an incisive passing range and technically astute tackling, the former Newcastle United midfielder is considered one of the most undervalued players in World Football.
Parker is rumoured to have a £16 million price tag on his head, which is more than affordable considering the calibre the Englishman possess.
Charles N'Zogbia-Wigan Athletic
14 of 15
Like Hugo Rodallega, regardless of how the Wigan campaign concludes, it is certain the key attacker and arguably the Latic's player of the season Charles N'Zogbia will depart the DW Stadium. The Frenchman has been outstanding for Wigan since arriving in 2009 and has enjoyed a particularly strong 2010/2011.
Thirty six appearances and 10 goals have aroused for the 24-year-old, who is equally dynamic on the wing, at left back and through the middle. An ideal, cheap and effective replacement should either Samir Nasri or Andrei Arshavin depart, N'Zogbia is also a keen fan of Arsenal Football Club and possesses ambitions to win silverware and play UEFA Champions League football.
Ashley Young-Aston Villa
15 of 15
One of the deadliest and clinical wingers in World Football is desiring a new club with Arsenal one of his preferred option. Ashley Young has grown tired of the lacklustre Aston Villa and is believed to be up for grabs pending sides are willing to play rumoured £20-30 million.
Blessed with devastating speed, balance and feet alongside a ferocious shot, the 25-year-old is well worth the price tag. With Samir Nasri and Andrei Arshavin both rumoured to be departing the Emirates, Young would more than mitigate either's lack of presence.
The English international is a genuine attacking threat with the ball and would thrive under the Arsenal style of play, but is Wenger willing to spend?
