Arsenal Planning a Doubtful January Double Transfer of Marek Hamsik and Mattia Destro?

It’s exciting when new rumors pop up, especially rumors that no one saw coming. Arsenal are now linked to a January double transfer of Roma’s Mattia Destro and Napoli’s Marek Hamsik. Both are attacking players. So how probable is this move?

On the surface, it’s almost laughable. With a loaded attack that hinges on Alexis Sanchez, and in-form Olivier Giroud, Alex Oxlade Chamberlain, Santi Cazorla and a near-healthy Theo Walcott, what’s the point of adding two more?

Well, for starters, if Lukas Podolski and Joel Campbell follow through on the rumors leading them out the door, than we’d need replacements. Not only that, but they would be upgrades.

More from Pain in the Arsenal

• 3 observations from Arsenal’s victory at Goodison Park
• 3 standout players from 1-0 victory over Everton
• 3 positives & negatives from Goodison Park victory
• Arsenal vs PSV preview: Prediction, team news & lineups
• 3 talking points from Arsenal’s victory at Goodison Park

I’ve always been a fan of Hamsik and his style of play for Napoli, so it’s hard for me to not get excited about the possibility. But as an attacking midfielder, he’d have plenty of competition. While competition is always a good thing, too many first team players not getting enough first team action can lead to trouble (see Podolski).

But Hamsik does bring another aerial threat to the table, being six foot tall.

Destro would add pressure on Giroud where Welbeck has failed to do so. Right now, no one can compete with Giroud for that starting spot, but player’s go through slumps and some hardy competition should inspire Giroud to stay in his best form. Again, Welbeck has failed in this regard, so a competent striker to challenge Giroud might be a welcome addition.

The problem is price, as it always seems to be with Arsenal. If Podolski gets his wish and leaves (though I’d prefer if he just got more playing time) and Campbell seeks an exit (again, doubtful), we could afford them. But it’s not like Napoli would be keen to sell Hamsik, who’s spent his last seven years on the squad.

But all things considered, I give this about a 5% chance of happening. Ozil is due back and if Wenger wasn’t willing to replace Ozil with Cesc Fabregas, why would he bring in Hamsik?

Let’s stick to rounding up a center back and a holding midfielder, please.

Follow Pain in the Arsenal on Facebook, Google+ and Twitter.