Arsenal persist with stunning Raheem Sterling & Mahrez transfers

What Raheem Sterling & Riyad Mahrez Moves Mean for Arsenal

These may be shows of ‘ambition’ from Arsenal but for the latter in particular, what happens if he says yes? What if Manchester City turn around and say £60m will do and the Algerian fancies moving to north London? Do they persist?

Mahrez, as world class as he can be on his day, would be a ridiculous signing: he’s 30 years old now and will cost a fortune, needing a long-term contract on big wages. He’s a brilliant footballer whose arrival would end Nicolas Pepe’s Arsenal career as we know it and risks limiting Bukayo Saka’s playing time.

It’s a deal that makes no sense. As for Sterling, being younger there is more credibility behind a move for him but it would constitute another huge outlay in the areas Arsenal have more strength than anywhere else. Another odd one.

Therefore, if it’s purely muscle flexing and testing the waters to see how inviting of a proposition Arsenal are, it would be better off using that energy on players the club actually needs. If it’s nothing more than inquiries as stated, then so be it. If they want to see whether these two players fancy the idea of joining Arsenal, OK.

Whether it is that or not, there could be other ideas in play, such as demonstrating how much money they have. As Jones puts it:

"“It backs up claims from some insiders around the club that Arsenal could invest heavily in this summer window.”"

Don’t show your hand. If you do have more money than everyone else believes you do, don’t advertise that across the continent or to the biggest clubs in England, those who you’re specifically trying to see if you can rival in the market.

It’s peculiar. Granted, it’s nice to see Arsenal are willing to push the boat and do all within their power to amend the failings of past regimes and windows, just perhaps it’s better refocus what the PRiorities are.