Transfers 2011: Arsenal FC Sign Attacking Midfielder?

Arsenal have reportedly signed attacking midfielder Ricky Alvarez from Velez Sarsfield, according to reports in Argentina.

Goal.com reported that the 23-year-old will make the switch to North London after agreeing to a pre-contract deal. The player will move to London once his current deal expires in June, making him a free-transfer signing.

The player is tall, standing at 6'2", and can play across all areas of the midfield—a player that fits the calibre of Arsene Wenger. Wenger often signs players who are flexible to play in various positions, and Alvarez seems to tick those boxes.

Alvarez is Argentinian and holds an Italian passport, making him eligible to play in England straight away. His height is a welcomed addition to a short Gunners squad, and if reports in England are to be believed, then another towering defender will be added to the squad in the form of Christopher Samba.

That could be two players signed up early in the summer, which would leave only one real acquisition, the goalkeeper. I feel that Arsenal will battle hard to get Shay Given, as he will be a bargain buy and is good enough for the job.

As for Alvarez, it seems Wenger has gone back to unearthing a talented player unknown to the world but soon could become world class. All he needs is one good season.

Another young midfielder who has reportedly targeted Arsenal as his ideal destination is Eden Hazard. The Belgian sensation is to cost around £20 million but gave his strongest hint that he wishes to move to North London because youngsters have a chance to play football.