Arsenal Transfer Rumours: Yann M'Vila Targeted to Plug the Gap in Midfield

The Daily Express is running an article suggesting that Arsene Wenger is interested in signing Rennes midfield general Yann M'Villa.

The Express indicates that the Gunners' boss is considering a bid of £15 million for M'Villa, who he hopes would allow Jack Wilshere to take on the role of chief creator.

The signing of M'Villa would be a smart move and one welcomed by many Arsenal supporters.  The 21-year old France international is a good combination of power and technique.

M'Villa would add some much-needed tenacity and energy to the Gunners' midfield.  He possesses the physicality to help prevent this youthful Arsenal side from being regularly outmuscled in the Premier League.

M'Villa's strength and composure would provide a highly effective complement to the flair of Jack Wilshere and Aaron Ramsey.

Adding M'Villa would give Arsene Wenger the option of partnering the French ace with Alex Song, giving Arsenal a rugged base to protect their beleaguered back four and begin attacks.

M'Villa's arrival would also help Arsenal cope better without Song when the Cameroon star departs for the Africa Cup of Nations.

Now that Cesc Fabregas has left the club, Wenger has the chance to alter the team's style of play.  Signing a midfielder with M'Villa's attributes could signal a departure from the intricate short-range passing approach.

Arsenal could create a new midfield that would be the foundation for a system of play based more on power and speed.