Arsenal: 5 surprise transfer window moves ahead of deadline

3. Cedric is Loaned Out

One of the most inexplicably stupid signings in recent memory was the acquisition of Cedric, who quite clearly arrived courtesy of a budding friendship between Edu and Kia Joorabchian.

Was he who Arteta really wanted? Granted he gave his blessing but given how far down the pecking order he is at the club – close to fourth choice in both full-back departments – he either had little say in the matter or changed his mind in quick time.

The plan this summer is to bring in a new right-back, which is entirely contingent on Hector Bellerin being moved on. A desire from all parties to secure that move will surely see it happen, no matter how undesirable it will be financially for Arsenal.

Furthermore, Arsenal don’t need three right-backs. It’s been mentioned by football.london that the defender wants to stay and fight for his place despite loan interest in him. Why, though?

Bellerin being replaced by a first team regular pushes him down the pecking order even further, and with Chambers due to stay and White capable of filling in at right-back, Arsenal would gladly sanction a loan move somewhere to reduce the squad size and get wages off the books.

Whether Bellerin stays or not, Cedric isn’t needed. He didn’t even make the squad on Wednesday night.

If he can be convinced enough that he won’t be playing at all this season, which couldn’t be more obvious, then a late move away would actually be relatively unsurprising. Arsenal would likely be content paying some of his wages.