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Arsenal: Granit Xhaka the key summer restriction
Martin Keown has stated that Arsenal must improve their central midfield options. However, with Arsene Wenger’s loyalty, Granit Xhaka will be the key summer restriction.
The summer transfer window is closing in, and with it comes the dreams and the fantasies of fans from around the world. It is a time when anyone can be optimistic about the state of their club, the trajectory that their team are taking and their future prospects, even Arsenal fans.
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And after a dismal season, the worst in Arsene Wenger’s 21-year tenure, there are many issues with the squad that need to be addressed if they are to find success once more. As the build up to the summer continues, the discussion begins to focus on what positions and what players should be priorities of the club as they look to bolster their playing squad.
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That is exactly the question that Martin Keown faced in his Q&A session with the Daily Mail. Keown was asked if there are any areas in the Arsenal squad that he wants to be addressed in particular. Keown highlighted the issues that his former side have had in replacing Santi Cazorla in central midfield when the Spaniard has been out injured, stating:
"“On the pitch, they need to sign one of Europe’s best midfield players. Granit Xhaka is improving but he is not putting fear into the Premier League’s top teams. Arsenal need a player who can dictate the play. They have felt the loss of Santi Cazorla greatly and it has massively affected the group.”"
At this point, I should state that I completely agree with Keown’s assessment of the Gunners’ needs and where their resources would be best invested. However, while I hope for a new central midfield to be brought to the Emirates, because of one key reason, I do not expect that to happen.
The presence of Granit Xhaka will prevent Wenger spending heavily at the position. Wenger is admirably loyal to his players. He is willing to be extremely patient as he waits for their development to reach their peak, enduring inconsistent patches of form and poor performances. I would be extremely surprised to see Wenger invest in a new central midfielder having spent £35 million on Xhaka last summer.
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Xhaka is a player who possesses a few key traits that suggest he has the ability to develop into a top class central midfielder. That does not mean that investment is not needed at the position. But it does mean that Wenger will refrain from spending big, however beneficial it may seem.