Bendtner Seals Juventus Loan

 

By Nick Lander

 

Outcast striker Nicklas Bendtner has joined reigning Serie A champions Juventus on a season long loan.

 

The Turin club have has a nightmare summer with manager Antonio Conte handed a 10 month ban which is understood to be a factor in them missing out on their top transfer targets of the summer in Robin van Persie and Luis Suarez. They had hoped to sign one or both early in the transfer window, but things did not work out and Juve have now resorted to bringing in Bendtner for the season with a view to making the transfer permanent for £5m next summer.

 

It is the second August in a row that Arsenal have been forced to accept a loan deal for Bendtner, having been eager to get rid of him permanently. Last summer, he ended up in the North East with Sunderland, where he ended up joint top scorer at the club, but did not earn - nor want - a permanent transfer. There has been interest throughout the summer, and the Dane is understood to have snubbed at least three different permanent moves, much to the Gunners' frustration, and has now linked up with the Italian club.

In his post-signing interview with Juventus' in-house media, he describes his new club as "the biggest club in Italy" and says that he hopes to "show everything on the pitch without trying to talk too much about it." He also said that he's "humble" to be at the club. Quotes that suggest a move away from his more arrogant stance that has wound up arsenal fans so much over the last few years, and also hints that he aims to keep out of the limelight after a number of recent controversies over his off-pitch behaviour.
 

He tweeted that he is "very proud and can't wait to wear the stripes. I want to fulfil my potential here and show the fans my absolute best as that is yet to come. I am sure I will." Arsenal will be hoping for the same, and that he will convince Juventus to make his transfer permanent next July, rather than having to go through the same charade again next year.

 

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Park Joins Celta Vigo

 

By Nick Lander

 

South Korean striker Park Ju-Young has joined La Liga side Celta Vigo on a season long loan, with a view to a permanent move next summer. He will be presented at 17:00 local time.

 

Park will join up with the Spanish club fresh from winning the bronze medal in the men's football with South Korea at the London 2012 Olympics. Celta Vigo describe him as "a player of extraordinary talent."

 

An Arsenal flop, with just one goal in the League Cup and one, substitute, Premier League appearance, Park is one of a number of players expected to depart the club today, with Danish striker Nicklas Bendtner understood to be close to leaving the club on loan too.

 

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Gunners Get Kind Cup Draws

 

By Nick Lander

 

Arsenal learnt their fate in both the Champions League and Capital One Cup (formerly Carling Cup) today, receiving fairly kind draws in both competitions.

 

Arsenal were one of the top seeds, in Pot 1 for the Champions League draw in Monaco at 1700BST were drawn into Group B, alongside Bundesliga side Shalke 04 from Pot 2, Greeks side Olympiakos (again!) and French champions Montpellier were drawn from Pot 4, handing Olivier Giroud a swift return to the club he departed for the Gunners in July.

 

Whilst not the easiest group that the Gunners could have got, it is extremely favourable when compared to the 'group of death' that Manchester City find themselves in, alongside Real Madrid, Ajax and Borussia Dortmund. All four teams reigning domestic champions.

 

The draw for the Carling Cup third round was also this evening, which has paired the Gunners with League 1 side Coventry City. Coventry advanced after beating Championship side, and midlands rivals, Birmingham 3-2 after extra-time in the second round. The tie will be played at the Emirates in the week beginning 24th September.

 

Arsenal Champions League fixtures:

     Montpellier vs. Arsenal - 18th September

     Arsenal vs. Olympiakos - 3rd October

     Arsenal vs. Shalke 04 - 24th October

     Shalke 04 vs. Arsenal - 6th November

     Arsenal vs. Montpellier - 21st November

     Olympiakos vs. Arsenal - 4th December

 

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Could These 2 Owens be the Solution for Arsenal?

By Nick Lander

Michael Owen and Owen Hargreaves. Both England internationals, both free agents. Both players Arsenal should move for?

 

Owen Hargreaves was released by Manchester City after one season at the club, which he had joined following four injury plagued years across town with Manchester United. The 31-year-old has 40 England caps and was the star of England's 2006 World Cup campaign, signing for United for £17m off the back of it. Certainly one of England's finest talents if he can stay fit and rediscover his form of 2006, Hargreaves could be a real asset for the Gunners, especially as they are on the hunt for a new midfielder, after Alex Song left for Barcelona.

 

Despite barely featuring for Roberto Mancini's side last season, he only made four appearances, Hargreaves did have a virtually injury-free campaign, missing only a week in October after getting kicked in the calf in training. Canadian born Hargreaves managed to play in about 30 training matches in his final four months at City, something which gives positive signals to potential clubs.

 

Despite having only managed to make more than 20 league appearances in a season five times so far in his career, I believe that Hargreaves would be more than worth a gamble, were the club to look to sign him on a pay-as-you-play deal, say offering £25k per week basic plus an additional £30k if he plays.

 

I would make a move for Michael Owen on similar terms too. The 32-year-old striker was released by Manchester United at the end of 2011/12, having bagged 17 goals in 49 appearances for the Red Devils over the last three seasons, which is a very good record for someone used infrequently and generally as a substitute.

 

The Gunners are still in the market for a striker, with Nicklas Bendtner on the verge of a move to Italy and a club for Ju-Young Park still being sought, and England international Owen could be of use to the club, as he would count as a home-grown player in their Premier League squad - something which is adding complications to the club's current transfer business - and has a proven goalscoring record in the Premier League. Surely worth a pay-as-you-play deal! Were Arsene Wenger to decide to move for Owen, he would have to fend off interest from Stoke and Everton, which could force the striker's wages up to a level that just is not worth the risk.

 

Whilst I highly doubt that either of these signings will happen, they are two extremely valid options in my opinion.

 

Whatever happens, the end of the transfer window is set to be very exciting from an Arsenal perspective, with 3 or 4 new players expected, plus a number of players leaving. You keep track of it all by liking the N5 Blog on Facebook and following me on Twitter - @Goonernl

 

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Gunners Linked with Boilesen

By Nick Lander

Arsenal have been linked with a move for Denmark and Ajax defender Nicolai Boilesen. The 20-year-old left back had an injury-hampered 2011/12, managing only 6 appearances, but it seems he has done enough to catch the attention of Arsenal and fellow Premier League side Southampton.

 

When asked about his Premiership suitors by ekstrabladet.dk he said: "I have not heard anything about it yet. Someone from the Dutch press told me about it 10 minutes ago that is all I know right now. Therefore it is difficult for me to have an opinion on these rumours. For now I am concentrating on my rehab here at Ajax.

 

"But, I am very flattered if it is true that a Premier League club has made an offer for me."

 

Arsene Wenger is in the market for a new defender, and would prefer to sign someone who is comfortable in any position across the back four, after the defensive injury crises over the last few seasons.

 

Personally, I doubt that Arsenal will sign the Danish international, but stranger things have happened.

 

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Roberts Links Up With Caley Thistle

By Nick Lander

 

Promising Arsenal youngster Philip Roberts is to head to the SPL to spend the first half of the season on loan with Inverness Caledonian Thistle. The 18-year-old will link up after impressing on trial last week.

 

Signed from Norwich in summer 2010, the Republic of Ireland youth international was the U-18s top scorer last season. A powerful centre forward, Roberts likens his style to that of Thierry Henry, and hopes one day to be compared to him.

 

Thistle manager Terry Butcher said: "Arsenal have agreed to let Philip sign for us until the next transfer window and we're very grateful for their help. This is the beginning of a partnership with Arsenal that will help their younger players gain first team experience with Inverness Caley Thistle in this season and the future. I am extremely thankful to Liam Brady for his first class help and assistance."

 

Roberts himself is looking forward to linking up with his new club, tweeting that "it's a great place."

 

The loan move is sure to be a good one for Roberts who will have the chance to experience first team football at a very young age, rather than the less competitive atmosphere of the new U-21s league. Caley Thistle are hoping to complete the paperwork to finalise the loan by the end of the transfer window.

 

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Arsenal Want Walcott Decision

 

By Nick Lander

 

Theo Walcott, 23, is reported to have turned down Arsenal's latest contract offer. The England winger is currently earning around £60k per week at the club, with his current deal expiring at the end of the season.

 

The club are understood to have tabled an offer of a five year deal worth around £75k per week. Walcott, however, is understood to be holding out for a contract worth nearer £100,000 per week. Still largely unproven, Walcott's form and fitness has fluctuated wildly during his time at the club so far, but his last two seasons have probably been his best. He managed 11 goals and 13 assists during 2011/12, many of his assists going to Robin van Persie, who's sale Walcott is said to be concerned about.

 

Domestically, Chelsea, Liverpool and Manchester City have been linked with moves, but the Gunners' London rivals are unlikely to sanction a move, having already spent in the region of £80m on attacking talent this summer.

 

Liverpool is perhaps Walcott's most likely destination. A boyhood fan, the Reds are believed to be ready to match Walcott's wage demands, and he would be likely to be able to hold down a starting berth on Mersyside. City on the other hand, are interested in him as a squad player, with their £6.2m move for Swansea's Scott Sinclair stalling. They are also happy to meet his wage demands, and possibly exceed them, but he would rarely start. It has been suggested that the Citizens would include striker Edin Dzeko as part of a deal, with Arsene Wenger understood to be on the look out for another new striker.

 

The Gunners are said to be prepared to wait 48 hours for Theo Walcott to decide whether or not to accept their offer, otherwise they will be prepared to sell him for upwards of £12m on deadline day.

 

Theo Walcott looked to be on very good form over pre-season, but struggled (like most of the rest of the team) against Sunderland, and was only a substitute against Stoke. I believe he looks set for his best season in an Arsenal shirt, and that it would be a real shame to see a player who still has a lot of potential sold, especially as he is still believed to want to remain at the club. It would not surprise me if Walcott is not sold this month, even if he does not commit to a new deal, I suspect that a January sale would be much more likely were he to decline to extend his stay in N5.

 

Both parties are said to remain hopeful of agreeing a new deal soon.

 

Want to know why I think Theo Walcott is so important to Arsenal? Read my Arsenal Zone column for July here.

 

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Boateng Heads to Oxford

 

By Nick Lander

 

Oxford United have signed 19-year-old Arsenal defender Daniel Boateng on loan, initially until January 2013.

 

Boateng heads to League 2 having made one senior appearance for the Gunners, in last season's Carling Cup victory over Bolton Wanderers. He spent two months on loan in the division last term too, making two appearances for Paulo di Canio's Swindon, on their way to promotion. Boateng, who has been at the club since he was 11, also appeared for Arsenal during the Markus Liebherr Memorial Cup during pre-season.

 

Whilst inexperienced at senior level, Boateng has made 32 appearances for Arsenal's reserves/U-21 side, most recently in the U-21s 3-0 win over Blackburn at the weekend.

 

The centre back went straight into manager Chris Wilder's squad, making his debut as a late substitute in United's 3-0 loss to Championship side Leeds in the Capital One Cup - formerly Carling Cup - tonight (Tuesday).

 

Hopefully Boateng will return to the club with a wealth of experience in January or have his loan extended until the end of the season, as the U's try to attain promotion.

 

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Forset Capture Lansbury

 

By Nick Lander

 

Nottingham Forest have unveiled their 9th signing of the summer, Arsenal youngster Henri Lansbury, who joins in a permanent deal. The talented midfielder, who has also played in goal when called upon, is bringing to a close a 13 year association with the Gunners.

 

Lansbury worked his way through the ranks in North London, joining the club as an eight-year-old, as part of the same group as Jack Wilshere and Emmanuel Frimpong. The youngster made 3 Premier League and 5 League Cup appearances for the club, scoring in the 4-1 League Cup 3rd round victory at White Hart Lane in September 2010. The 21-year-old also has 14 caps for England U-21s - for whom one of his goalkeeping appearances came, after the substitute goalkeeper got sent off.

 

The youngster has plenty of football league experience, having had loan spells at Scunthorpe, Norwich and West Ham, enjoying promotion with all three. Lansbury made 22 appearances for the Hammers as they got promoted back to the Premier League last season, and will be hoping to have a greater involvement as Forest look to return to the top tier of English football, having joined on a 4 year deal, for a fee reported to be over £1m. Arsenal seem to be including hefty sell-on clauses in most transfers away from the club at the moment, and this is likely to be the case for Lansbury's too.

 

Lansbury's failure to really make it at Arsenal could be largely attributed to circumstance, he decided to go out on loan in August 2011, but failed to make any real impact in East London, and may have been better off remaining with Arsenal and trying to force his way into Arsene Wenger's first team plans. He also seemingly missed out on one last chance to prove himself, after injury prevented him from travelling on the club's Asia tour this summer - his replacement Thomas Eisfeld went on to score twice in the three games.

 

Lansbury had this to say about his move, "I am leaving a huge club in Arsenal... but the time is right for me to move on and I'm delighted to be joining a club of Forest's stature in the game.

 

"I'm in no doubt that Forest have what it takes to go up."

 

A player who I have always liked and thought talented, I am sure that Lansbury will be back in the Premier League soon, be that after a fourth successive promotion with Forest or somewhere else. I believe he will be more Seb Larsson than David Bently with his post-Arsenal career.

 

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Walcott Contract Talks Continue

Walcott has been at the club since January 2006

By Nick Lander

 

Arsene Wenger stated his optimism that Theo Walcott would sign a new contract by the end of the month in his pre-Stoke press conference this morning.

 

The Arsenal winger has been repeatedly linked with a move away from the club over the summer, with the likes of Liverpool, Chelsea and Southampton being linked with moves, along with a number of clubs from Serie A in Italy.

 

Currently on around £70k per week, Walcott is understood to be looking for a moderate increase in his wages as well as additional opportunities to play in the centre of the front three, as Arsenal's main striker, something which Wenger is willing to entertain.

 

So far in his Arsenal career, the England international has made 221 appearances in all competitions, scoring 42 goals. More importantly, Walcott provided 15 Premier League assists over the 2010/11 and 2011/12 seasons combined. That might not sound a high figure, but only Robin van Persie, Nani, Ashley Young and David Silva provided more over the same period. In addition, 2010/11 was an injury hit campaign, making his assist tally even more impressive.

 

Wenger himself is not currently involved in negotiations, but says that "both parties are around the table." Asked if he was confident that the situation could be sorted by the end of the transfer window he said, "that's what we will try to do. One way or the other, we want to sort that situation out. We want to extend his contract."

 

The Arsenal manager believes too, that both parties want to reach an agreement, "his desire, I think, as well is right. He wants to stay and we need to find an agreement."

 

Whilst a new deal may not be finalised before the end of the month, it does appear very likely that Theo Walcott will continue to turn out in Arsenal colours beyond the end of the season. You can find out why I think that is so important by reading my Arsenal Zone column from last month here.

 

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Mirallas Snub Indicates Arsenal Still Want a Striker

By Nick Lander

Everton paraded their new signing Kevin Mirallas before the Goodison faithful during their game against Manchester United yesterday. Signed from Olympiakos for around £6m, the Belgian striker revealed that the Gunners are still on the prowl for a new striker, in addition to their quest for a defensive recruit and a new midfielder.

There had been an expectation that Arsene Wenger would move to bring in a new player up front when Robin van Persie departed, but the Arsenal manager said that he had already replaced the Dutchman when he signed Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski, French and German internationals respectively. It has now emerged, courtesy of Mirallas, that Wenger does still want to add a striker to his squad. Mirallas said, "discussions were at quite an advanced stage with Arsenal but it was always clear it would be totally down to me to make the decision.

"I was convinced that what was important for me at this stage of my career, embarking on new league, is to get plenty of time on the field. I had a possibility of playing more games and longer periods with Everton."

With this revelation, the deduction that Wenger is still searching for a new attacker is a fairly obvious one, but equally is welcome news for Arsenal fans. One name that is well in the frame for a move to North London is Athletic Bilbao's Fernando Llorente, and you can read my thoughts on who could/should be signed in my August column on Arsenal Zone.

This does mean that Arsenal are looking to add players across the pitch, with the futures of Lukasz Fabianski and Vito Mannone in the Arsenal goal still uncertain too, Fabianski seemingly having been dropped from the Arsenal bench for the Italian.

The rest of the transfer window should certainly be active and exciting from an Arsenal perspective, and you can keep track of it by liking the N5 Blog Facebook page and by following me on Twitter - @Goonernl.

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Biglia Available on the Cheap

By Nick Lander

Anderlecht's Argentinian midfielder Lucas Biglia, 26, has confirmed that he is available for just £6.3m. He was one of the players who I believe most capable of filling the Alex Song shaped hole in Arsenal's midfield, as I wrote in this article.

It had been understood that Anderlecht were willing to part with their captain for a fee between £8-12m, but the midfielder himself has now confirmed that they are after a much smaller figure, "I can leave for €8million [£6.3m] in the current market, and that is quite a lot of money - but I agreed to this transfer fee myself so I can't really complain. There are clubs ready to pay that amount but they are not better than Anderlecht so for now I focus on this club. I want to at least be playing in Europe."

The likes of Everton and Southampton are also understood to be interested in the Argentine, but with his European ambitions, Arsenal seems to be the only plausible Premier League destination for him.

Strong on and off the ball, with good technique and an exquisite touch, Biglia has both the defensive nous and creative vision to truly replace Song in the Arsenal midfield. At just over £6m he is not over-expensive either, something which will surely be a draw for Arsenal who are also looking at the likes ofYann M'Vila, who would be available for around treble the price of Biglia.

Whether he will join remains to be seen, but Arsenal are believed to have a strong interest.

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Wenger After a Defender

By Nick Lander

Arsene Wenger has confirmed that he is looking to bring in a midfielder to replace Alex Song, but also revealed that he is looking for a defensive addition too.

Talking to ArsenalPlayer after the Sunderland draw Wenger divulged that he is looking for a new defender, saying, "we are looking to bring one more midfielder in [to replace Alex Song], of course, and maybe one defender as well, because we feel still that we are short in some positions."

Nuri Sahin is expected to fill the midfield vacancy, with his signing expected to be announced tomorrow or Wednesday, after the Real Madrid midfielder snubbed interest from Liverpool and Spurs to join the Gunners for the season. Some believe, myself included, that there will be a second arrival in midfield, as a direct replacement for Song, you can read my thoughts on the candidates here.

That there are plans afoot for a defensive recruit is something which has flown relatively under the radar so far this summer, the only real speculation of a defensive addition being that Philippe Mexes may join from AC Milan in a swap deal for striker Nicklas Bendtner.

There are cases to be made for Wenger to strengthen in any of the defensive positions, some remain unconvinced by Carl Jenkinson as cover at right back (although I feel he turned in a strong defensive performance against Sunderland, and games can only do him good), whilst Kyle Bartley's move to Swansea may open up a space in the squad for a central defender. However, with Ignasi Miquel so close to becoming a permanent fixture in the first team - perhaps after spending time out on loan later this season - I doubt that this is where the Gunners are looking to strengthen.

At left back it is an entirely different prospect. Kieran Gibbs seems to be Wenger's first choice, but he has suffered a number of injuries in the past. Andre Santos was signed last summer to compete for the starting berth, but his defending has been poor at times and plain old unconvincing at others. Whilst I do not see him as someone who is about to be sold, I wonder if we may see him playing on the left of the front three more this season, as was experimented with during the Asian leg of Arsenal's pre-season.

Who will come in is a complete mystery. Mexes has been linked, but I imagine Arsenal would rather have cash for the want-away Bendtner. Another name in the frame has been that of Swansea City's Angel Rangel. With so little speculation in the press, I would expect that the defender will come in right at the last minute, maybe there will be some deadline day excitement for the second year in a row!

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Arsenal 0-0 Sunderland - Match Report

By Nick Lander

A stubborn Sunderland held Arsenal to an opening day draw this afternoon. The visitors came for a point, rigidly sticking to their game plan, achieving their aim. That they were wasting time at all opportunities in the first half of the first game of the season perhaps says something about their aims for the season though.

The game did not start as it meant to go on, Sunderland had some early opportunities as Arsenal settled down, James McLean forced a good save out of Wojciech Szczesney, the only real action he had to make all game, before debutant Santi Cazorla forcing a brilliant save from Simon Mignolet in the Sunderland goal, who tipped a fierce, swerving and dipping effort, unleashed from 25 yards, over the bar.

Cazorla came close again, Gervinho - who was lively throughout, though there was too little end product - cut the ball back, and the Spaniard fired just wide, with Lukas Podolski in attendance too, perhaps the playmaker could have left it. Nevertheless, it was a decent enough effort.

Abou Diaby was the next to go close, a surging run from midfield saw him unleash a shot from just outside the area, which Mignolet got down to well, tipping it around his right post.

Podolski was largely quiet, but went close from a free kick early in the second half. Before being replaced on the hour by fellow debutant Olivier Giroud. Giroud was immediately involved, caressing a volley over the bar under pressure after a good cross by Carl Jenkinson.

Aaron Ramsey came on for Diaby just before and Andrei Arshavin came on just after. Both looking on much better form than they have been for the Gunners of late. An increased desire and work rate from Arshavin being particularly noticeable, if he can keep that up throughout the season, he could turn out to be a key player.

Arsenal summoned just one more chance, again falling to Giroud. The Frenchman made a superb run in behind the defence, and Cazorla slipped him in with a sublime pass. The striker was well onside and in acres of space, but rushed his shot, firing into the side netting, when he really should have scored. Though, to be fair to him, it did come on his weaker right foot.

Arsenal's last meaningful effort of the game, which concluded an encouraging, dominant performance, which was not at all reflected by the scoreline. Sunderland came to get a point, and did defend well, rigidly sticking to their 4-1-4-1 formation, denying Arsenal the space in the final third that they so craved.

Whilst 0-0 was not the result that any Gooners were hoping for, the performance showed a little of what is to come. In a team that has an essentially new spine to it, the signs are more than promising, and I am sure that the cutting edge and finishes will come as the side get used to playing with each other. Stoke will be a tough proposition next week, and with Alex Song's move to Barcelona now confirmed, it would be helpful to see a new defensive addition. You can read my scouting article on who could be coming in as a replacement here.

Trivia of the week: Both Andrei Arshavin and Per Mertesacker's last competitive action for Arsenal came away at Sunderland. Returns.

Arsenal Player Ratings: Szczesney 6, Jenkinson 7, Mertesacker 7, Vermaelen 7, Gibbs 8, Diaby 7 (Ramsey 6), Arteta 7, Walcott 7 (Arshavin 6), Cazorla 9, Gervinho 6, Podolski 6 (Giroud 7)

My man of the match was Santi Cazorla (left). He was by far the most influential player on the pitch, and played an amazing 7 key passes. He was also solid defensively and had probably the most testing shot of the game. £12/15m he's a bargain. Will be in my fantasy football team by next week. Probably. Great all round performance.


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Who Should Replace Alex Song?

Anderlecht's Lucas Biglia

By Nick Lander

With Alex Song's impending departure to Barcelona, Arsene Wenger has two options. Promote from within or find a new recruit. The latter is far more convincing. While it is disappointing that Song is set to leave, it will represent a good piece of business by the club, who signed him for just £1m. It will also represent a the club's new attitude to players, which seems to be 'you are 100% focused and on board or you will be sold.' A refreshing approach in an era when players seem increasingly to hold all the power.

Promoting from Within:

The likes of Abou Diaby and Mikel Arteta may also be considered to play the holding role, but for me either would be a short-term fix, rather than a long-term solution, so there are four possible candidates to replace the outgoing Cameroonian: 

Emmanuel Frimpong - Age: 20 Arsenal Appearances (Goals): 14 (0)

Frimpong made his breakthrough into the Arsenal first team in pre-season before the 2010/11 season, but an injury to his cruciate knee ligament put paid to his first team chances that year. He came back stronger and (for the mostpart) impressed in last season, especially in the Carling Cup game against Manchester City. Physically, Frimpong is probably the most ready of the four internal candidates, but sadly another cruciate knee ligament injury (sustained whilst spending the second half of 2011/12 on loan at Wolves) means that Frimpong will not be available until October at the earliest, so whilst he may be the best solution in the long-term, Arsenal will need an immediate replacement.

Francis Coquelin - Age: 21 Arsenal Appearances (Goals): 21(0)

Coquelin has shared the holding midfield role with Alex Song during pre-season, and has performed fairly well, but may lack the physical prescence to play that role in the Premier League. Technically assured, and comfortable on the ball, most of Coquelin's opportunities came at full back last season, where he impressed. Although he did play well in midfield too, being one of the few players who emerged from Arsenenal's disastrous start to the season with any credit.

Craig Eastmond - Age: 21 Arsenal Appearances (Goals): 10 (0)

Eastmond has played the holding role in the Premier League before and did impress me. Having said that, that those games came in 2009/10 which would suggest that Wenger was rather less impressed. He traveled on the Asia tour and played quite well. With Arsenal said to be ready to listen to offers for the youngster, it is unlikely that Wenger will put his faith in Eastmond, but if called upon, I think that he would be ready.

Nico Yennaris - Age: 19 Arsenal Appearances (Goals): 3 (0)

Yennaris is far less likely to be turned to. He only made his senior debut last season, and has been mostly been used as a right back. Quite short, Yennaris isn't strong enough either, so to be playing in the holding position would be a big ask. However, he may be ready in a couple of years after spending some time out on loan.

New Signing:

Before you read my thoughts on who Arsenal could bring in, I would like to state that I am by no means an expert on French or Belgian football, and do not regularly watch it. My scouting has been done by watching a few YouTube clips of all the players, but I hope that I will still manage to paint a reasonable (and accurate) picture of their respective merits.

Lucas Biglia (Anderlecht) - Aged 25, Argentine Biglia is rated at around £8m by Belgian club Anderlecht, where he is contracted until 2015. Arsenal are believed to have had an interest in him since 2006, before he moved to Belgium. He is not the tallest player, be his is strong on and off the ball. He also is quite a skillful player, who posesses some of creative guile we are so used to seeing from Alex Song.

Yann M'Vila (Rennes) - 22-year-old M'Vila is a very good player. Sadly, he knows it and has the attitude problems of a young player who is aware of his abilities. Arrested three times in the last two years and with a number of spats with managers behind him, M'Vila's attitude is what has put off some fairly solid interest from Arsenal earlier in the transfer window. He is technically accomplished though, with a good right foot and a good passing range too. His vision is also excellent and he could be as capable as Song going forward. He also has the potential to bulk up a little more, to become a far more powerful player, and a truly menacing opponent. Rennes want at least £17m for him, were he available for £10m or under, I think he would be worth the gamble, but for that sort of figure, he is too bigger risk, and only the likes of Manchester City could afford for him not to perform as hoped.

Etienne Capoue (Toulouse) - Capoue has just one France call up to his name, and is behind M'Vila in the French pecking order, but at £9.5m he would be at least £7m cheaper. There are also far fewer questions over his attitude. To me it seems that he is the least mature of the quartet that I am suggesting, the furthest from the complete player and not quite technically at the same level. Were the Gunners making the same search two or three years down the line, he might be the man, but at his current stage of development, he seems to me to be too far off the finished article to be better than any of Arsenal's internal options.

Nigel de Jong (Manchester City) - The Dutchman has just won the Premier League and Charity Shield with City, but he only has a year remaining on his contract at the Etihad, and the Citizens do not seem to be in a rush to tie him down to a new deal. That he already has Premier League experience would be a major draw. He also has the defensive discipline that some Arsenal fans feel Alex Song is so desperately lacking, with City generally looking a better side with him in it. Despite that, de Jong spent much of the second half of last season warming the City bench as Yaya Toure was unleashed in a deeper role. Potentially available for less than £10m I am sure that de Jong would be worth a bid to test the water at the very least.

Some people may be surprised not to see Nuri Sahin's name on that list, but my understanding is that he will be brought in whatever, and would have come on loan even if Song were not leaving.

Were Frimpong not injured at the moment, I would have given him the opportunity until at least January, but that is obviously not possible. With that the case, I hope that Wenger moves for one of Biglia or de Jong. I think that either would do a sterling job for Arsenal and prove to be a really good signing.

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AC Milan want Bendtner Talks

By Nick Lander

Danish striker Nicklas Bendtner may finally be nearing a move away from Arsenal. Italian Serie A side AC Milan have been understood to have an interest in the 24-year-old since Zlatan Ibrahimovic left for PSG, but Milan now appear to be firming up their interest and want talks with Bendtner's agent, before lodging a concrete bid with the Gunners.

As reported by the N5 Blog earlier in the week, Bendtner has three demands from any potential club which have not yet been met, leading to him turning down some offers already; believed to be from Galatasary and Benfica. He is said to be wanting wages of £70k per week, a figure which Milan are not happy with, but feel they will be able to negotiate on and to be able to visit his son in London once a week.

It remains to be seen if any progress will be made, but Milan are believed to be more than happy to pay Arsenal's £5m asking price - which would probably include a reasonable sell-on clause - so long as they can manoeuvre Bendtner's personal terms to a deal they feel is reasonable.

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Song on Verge of Barca Move

By Nick Lander

Cameroonian midfielder Alex Song would appear to be on the verge of a move to Spanish giants Barcelona. The holding midfielder has three years left on his contract, but Arsenal seem to have decided to sell him anyway.

Barcelona's interest has been public for the last couple of weeks, but because of the length of time left on his contract, Arsenal had been seen to be in a strong position, with little inclination to sell. However, Song's agent has reportedly infuriated the club by touting his client around the top clubs in Europe, and there has been some speculation that the club have been having some issues with the player over his attitude.

Other sources have been saying that Arsenal do in fact want to keep Song, but he has had his head turned by Barcelona's interest and that the Arsenal hierarchy just are not interested in yet another transfer saga, so will be naming their price.

In his press conference this morning, Arsene Wenger did little to dispel rumours that another of his star performers from last season could be set for pastures new. He said, "both [Song leaving and new signings] could happen. I don't know [about Song] at the moment.

"This decision [on Song] is not made. No [bid has been made]. I cannot tell you more."

Strong speculation has emerged this evening that Barcelona have successfully negotiated a £20m fee for the 24-year-old and that the Gunners will make a formal announcement that he has left the club by Monday. Spanish paper El Mundo Deportivo are reporting that the Catalans will be announcing his signing in a matter of hours, after the clubs agreed a fee of €20m (£15.7m) - although, as I said, British sources are suggesting a figure of £20m.

If Song does depart, Arsenal will be almost certain to strengthen, with Turk Nuri Sahin, 23, a likely arrival, on a season-long loan from Real Madrid. It had not been clear if Arsenal's move for Sahin was linked with Alex Song's future, but that does now seem the case (although I personally feel it's totally unrelated), with Sahin said to be stalling on a loan move to Liverpool so he can join the Gunners instead.

Another thing that was mentioned by Wenger during the questioning over Song's future, is that he now sees Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain as a centre midfielder, rather than playing a wide role as he did last season, "Oxlade-Chamberlain now plays centre midfield - this is an area we have more freedom to make decisions."

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Vermaelen gets Arsenal Captaincy

By Nick Lander

Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Thomas Vermaelen is the new captain of Arsenal. The 26-year-old Belgian is entering his fourth season at the club and will be supported by vice-captain Mikel Arteta.

Before he arrived in North London, Vermaelen was captain of Dutch club Ajax, and is occasionally captain of his national side. Vermaelen is the first captain that Arsenal have appointed solely to be a leader in recent years, as it has been used to try to keep Cesc Fabregas, Thierry Henry and Robin van Persie at the club, with varying degrees of success.

Former captain Fabregas tweeted his congratulations, saying that Vermaelen will "do a great job." Arsenal's new captain himself says that he is, "really happy and proud o be Arsenal captain - it's a real honour."

Arsenal fans will be hoping that the centre back becomes the first captain since Patrick Viera in 2005 to lift a major trophy this summer.

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Bartley departs Arsenal

By Nick Lander

Young centre back Kyle Bartley has joined Swansea City on a permanent basis. The Mancunian stopper has spent much of his time as an Arsenal player on loan, enjoying his best spells in the SPL with Rangers last season and the season before that, being part of the squad that won the 2010/11 SPL title.

Bartley said on his Twitter that, "[it] was an extremely tough decision for me to leave Arsenal, but felt the time was right. Swansea offered me an opportunity, and I'm extremely excited to start my career here, will always be thankful to Arsenal for my education.

"[I] was told my chances of game time this year would be limited, and as an ambitious young player I wanted to play in the Premiership.

"Now I'm here I will give 100% for Swansea. Thank you everyone who has been behind me. [A] new chapter for me and I can't wait."

The youngster has left the Gunners for £1m, though it is likely that the club has included a hefty sell on clause - as seems to be their preference at the moment - and may include a buy back clause too (one was surprisingly included in Carlos Vela's departure so it's plausible).

While he featured regularly on the club's Asia tour this pre-season, Captain-elect Thomas Vermaelen, Laurent Koscielny, Per Mertesacker and Johan Djourou were all ahead of the 21-year-old in the Arsenal pecking order. With little chance of any first team action barring another defensive injury crisis, the former Bolton man now has a good chance to carve out a Premier League career for himself, and The N5 Blog would like to wish him the best of luck in Wales - except for in the two games against Arsenal!

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Manchester United Agree van Persie Fee

By Nick Lander

Arsenal have announced that the club has reached an agreement with Manchester United over the transfer of talismanic striker Robin van Persie.

The Dutchman was in prolific form last season, bagging 37 goals in 48 appearances for the Gunners. He will head to Manchester on Thursday to complete a medical and agree terms on a £24m transfer. It is believed that the Red Devils will be offering a 4 year deal worth somewhere around £200,000 per week.

United initially bid about £15m for the 29-year-old as they had doubts over the fitness of a player who will have very little resale value. However, Arsenal adopted a hard-line stance when van Persie publicly stated his intentions to shun any new deal back at the beginning of July and kept that up, forcing Sir Alex Ferguson to pay over £20m. In reality, to get the sort of money the club has for a player with only a year remaining on his current deal and a troublesome injury record is fantastic business.

The Gunners have already signed strikers Lukas Podolski and Olivier Giroud this summer, and will be hoping that they can adequately replace the latest captain to quit the club. Arsenal may now sign an additional striker, with Athletic Bilbao's Fernando Llorente one of the favourites to move to N5.

Van Persie burned his bridges with the club when he released his statement in July, and many fans will now be glad to see that he will be leaving the club. The saga is over, and with long enough left in the window to properly adapt, without the supermarket-sweep-like deadline day that was seen at the club in August 2011. It is, however, yet another summer, in which Arsenal fans feel betrayed and let down by one of their stars. Fabregas and Nasri last year, Adebayor before that. Robin van Persie is sure to be in for a rocky reception when he returns to the Emirates in April.

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Bendtner Snubs Offers

By Nick Lander

Nicklas Bendtner has received a number of offers to leave the club, but has turned them all down. He does, however, seem to have a number of other suitors with whom he is still negotiating.

The Dane spent last season on loan in the North East with Sunderland, as the club failed to find a permanent buyer. He will definitely move on permanently this summer though, he told sporten.dk, "Arsenal is not an option and this is something both the club and I agree on. I expect to have found a solution to my situation before the window closes. There are concrete negotiations in the works."

The 24-year-old did admit that he has already turned down some clubs, "I have [turned down some offers] and there are a lot of different reasons for that. I have three demands and I won't sign a deal with a club who aren't prepared to fill those demands."

Bendtner has been hit and miss during his time at Arsenal, turning in some brilliant performances, but overshadowing those with some horrendous misses. Coupled with his sky-high self-confidence, which many fans see as an undeserved arrogance, he does not have the fans on side and Gooners will be hoping that a club who can fulfil his three demands comes in for him. He has not featured at all for the Gunners during pre-season.

The most noise currently being made is of a move to AC Milan, who are looking to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic, possibly involving French centre-half Philippe Mexes coming in the other direction. Arsenal will be hoping to wrap up this transfer within the first couple of weeks of the season, as the time remaining in this window is rapidly running out.

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Ryo Heads to Wigan

By Nick Lander

As reported by the N5 Blog last week, Ryo Miyaichi is heading to Wigan Athletic on a season long loan. Arsenal confirmed this morning that the 19 year old winger is moving to the DW Stadium for the year.

Miyaichi featured in Arsenal's Asia tour, but did not travel to Germany, for the 4-0 win over Cologne. He spent the second half of last season on loan at Bolton Wanderers, who were keen for him to return there this season, but will be staying in the Premier League, as he looks to gain further first-team experience at Wigan. Miyaichi scored once in 14 appearances for the Trotters, but as at Feyenoord established himself as a firm fans' favourite.

Ryo's arrival may signal that Chelsea will be successful in their attempts to sign Victor Moses, who shone for Roberto Martinez's side at the tail end of last season. It has been said in the media that Martinez was seeking to sign Ryo as his replacement, before he would allow him to move on.

Wigan's style of football is similar to Arsenal's and all parties will be hoping that Miyaichi can play regularly and return to Arsenal an improved player.

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Koscielny to miss France friendly

By Nick Lander

Laurent Koscielny is set to miss France's friendly with Uruguay this Wednesday, after picking up a calf injury during the second half of the Gunners' 4-0 victory over FC Köln.

 French sports newspaper L'Equipe are reporting that Koscielny will return to London this evening, with new France boss Didier Deschamps opting not to call up a replacement. He said, "he will have tests this afternoon, but at the time that I am speaking to you, it appears to compromise his participation on Wednesday." Had he played, Koscielny would have been winning his 5th cap for Les Bleus.

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain has also pulled out of international duty, and will miss England's friendly with Italy (also on Wednesday) with an ankle injury. He did pull up off the ball during the Köln match, though his was able to continue following treatment.

Arsenal fans will be hoping that both make swift recoveries, in time for the Gunners' opening Premier League fixture at home to Sunderland on Saturday.

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FC Köln 0 - 4 Arsenal

By Nick Lander

Arsenal turned in an impressive first half performance to secure an emphatic win in their last pre-season friendly in Germany. Debutants Santi Cazorla, Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski all impressed as the Gunners turned in probably their most satisfying performance of the summer.

A new look Gunners side started on the front foot, and took the lead on 5 minutes when Thomas Vermaelen converted Per Mertesacker's near post flick on, in a neat corner routine. Giroud had peeled off neatly to get a shot away at the near post immediately prior, to win the corner.

Arsenal's next chance came moments later, as Theo Walcott dug out a good cross which Giroud headed back across goal for Cazorla to fiercely volley goalwards, forcing FC Köln goalkeeper Timo Horn into his second excellent save of the match.

Lukas Podolski bagged his first Arsenal goal on 15 minutes, when he converted from the spot (pictured). The referee had pointed to the spot when Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain was bundled over in the box by Kevin Wimmer. Podolski made no mistake, sending the 'keeper the wrong way, as his penalty nestled just inside the left upright.

After that FC Köln came into the game a little more. A sloppy pass from Francis Coquelin handed possession to Kacper Przybylko who advanced well with the ball, shrugging off challenges from the Arsenal centre halves, before firing wastefully wide. He did not even manage to test Vito Mannone in the Gunners' goal. He should have.

A good interchange between Chamberlain and Walcott brought about the next Arsenal chance, as Walcott broke towards the box before cutting the ball back for Giroud. The Frenchman opened his body up and his curling shot was destined to bend in at the far post, but again goalkeeper Horn was equal to it, saving well.

Minutes later Giroud, signed from French champions Montpellier in July, forced an even better save from Horn, as he rose to meet Cazorla's outswinging corner. The Köln man just managed to tip Giroud's effort over the bar.

Cologne did manage to threaten again, as Przybylko pounced upon a loose ball, when Gibbs only half managed an interception, but he fired harmlessly into Mannone's arms. FC Köln stayed on top though and nearly caught out the error-prone Italian moments later, as Daniel Royer hit a shot straight at the goalkeeper which he fumbled over the bar. It should have been a simple catch. A corner, perhaps, was deserved by the German side as a reward for their best move of the match.

Arsenal managed to get back on top though, and scored their third of the evening through Podolski - a man who scored 18 goals for Köln last season on the way to their relegation to the second tier of German football. The German international started and ended the move. He dropped deep, picking up the ball in the middle of the Köln half, before playing a lovely ball over the fullback into Kieran Gibbs' path. Gibbs promptly cut the ball back, and, arriving late, Podolski slammed the ball emphatically into the net. He left Horn no chance. That made the score three nil at half time.

Arsene Wenger made 10 changes at the break, with only local boy Podolski surviving. And it was he who almost managed to bag a hat trick, as he closed down Marcel Schuhen (on in goal for Horn for the second half) who only just managed to clear. A very simple, but effective tactic, closing down the goalkeeper is something I hope to see Arsenal doing a lot more this season. Rushing goalkeepers into poor clearances can be really helpful, not only that, but I know that Colchester United (in League 1) managed to score two goals in a month by doing exactly that.

Wojciech Szczesney had a largely untroubled half in the Arsenal goal, but almost lost his clean sheet to a magnificent hit by Matthias Lehmann, who went for goal from 35 or 40 yards, his dipping and swerving shot had the young Pole completely beaten, and it smacked down off of the underside of the bar. Did it cross the line? It was hard to tell, the linesman certainly had no chance of seeing it, but it was certainly mighty close.

Gervinho then made it four. The Ivorian had a neat interchange with Podolski just inside the Arsenal half, before surging into the Köln box and slotting the ball home at the near post. Schuhen should have done much, much better.

The game almost completely fizzled out after that though. Robin van Persie came on for Podolski 15 minutes into the half; and took the captain's armband. The Gunners' passing became slacker in midfield and they started to concede possession all to often, but the home side did not manage to capitalise. Andrei Arshavin (operating in the playmaker role Cazorla had filled in the first half) created one last chance for the Londoners, making a superb, strong run into the Cologne box, before squaring the ball for Gervinho to run onto, but the winger spurned the opportunity completely.

As full time arrived, Arsenal had completely outclassed the German side. A four goal scoreline accurately reflecting the gulf between the two sides. It was a good workout for the Gunners and there were a few interesting things to note: it seems that outswinging corners will be utilised this season, rather than the inswingers we saw last term, and it does certainly seem that the team are much better set up to capitalise on them. It has been suggested that the routines have a little hint of Steve Bould in them.

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Tello on Arsenal Radar?

By Nick Lander

Arsenal could be set to move for Barcelona starlet Cristian Tello after he was overlooked by new manager Tito Vilanova. The winger featured 22 times last season under Pep Guardiola and impressed. The former Espanyol player has not even been given a squad number now Vilanova has taken over, whilst some other, younger products of Barca's famous La Masia academy have.

Tello was part of the Spanish Olympic team that fell at the group stages this summer and will be disappointed to find, on his return to Spain, that his short term Barcelona future looks bleak. Athletico Madrid are believed to be considering a loan offer for the 20 year old, however, both Arsenal and Liverpool have monitored the youngster in the past, and may now make a move for a player who will clearly be upset to be overlooked.

Possibly available for less than £10m, Tello would be a real steal, he is definitely a future star. Arsenal already have a number of players in the wide positions, but the chance to snap up Tello for a bargain price may be an opportunity that is too good to refuse.

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Arsenal Transfer Window Update

By Nick Lander

Summer 2012 was expected to be a busy one at Arsenal, but with only 25 days of the transfer window left, there are still a number of players remaining at the club who were expected to leave, in addition, there have only been two arrivals so far. In this article, we will give you the latest on all the players expected to depart - or already departed - as well as giving you the latest on any new signings.

Goalkeeping Departures:

Both Vito Mannone and Lukasz Fabianski were expected to find new clubs this summer, Mannone was very close to a move to Hull City before they changed managers. Steve Bruce was still interested in the Italian, but Arseanl's price tag is believed to have put him off. The Tigers still have not signed a goalkeeper, so Mannone's move may yet materialise.

Fabianski was very public about his desire to move on from the club at the end of last season. The Pole lost both Arsenal and Poland #1 jerseys to Wojciech Szczesney and endured a miserable 2011/12, spending most of the season on the bench. There has been no concrete interest reported from any clubs, and it is looking increasingly likely that Fabianski will be set for an undesired further season at Arsenal.

Manuel Almunia was released by the club at the end of 2011/12 and has now signed for Gianfranco Zola's Watford, where he will be hoping for a strong NPower Championship campaign.

Defensive Departures:

Sebastien Squillaci was expected to depart the club, and despite some early interest from a number of French clubs, the experienced centre half is still at the club. It is believed that the Frenchman's wage demands have put off many suitors, with Arsenal only seeking a nominal fee. Arsenal manager, Arsene Wenger, confirmed last week that he still expects Squillaci to have moved on by the end of August.

Johan Djourou had also been linked with a departure, and it was believed that there was some strong Italian interest in the Swiss, but he strongly denied that he was seeking a move away on his Twitter feed, and it does seem that he will remain at Arsenal for the next season at least. He endured a forgettable campaign last term, featuring mostly at right back and will be hoping for better things, in his preferred centre back position, this season.

Midfield Departures:

There had been some suggestion that time would be called on Abou Diaby's stop-start Arsenal career this summer, but Wenger appears to be giving his compatriot one last chance to prove that he can stay fit for an entire season, otherwise Diaby's career in North London is surely going to be over.

Andrei Arshavin spent the second half of 2011/12 on loan at Zenit St Petersburg who had been expected to make that transfer permanent, but some comments made after Russia's disappointing Euro 2012 campaign have severely damaged his reputation in Russia, and cooled Zenit's interest. There has been speculation that he could remain in the Premier League, with both Fulham and QPR linked, but it may be that he has a future with the Gunners, after Wenger said he would have talks with the diminutive playmaker. He may remain as a squad player or he may yet depart.

Brazillian Denilson is a player who Arsenal have been trying to offload for two summers now, they could only manage to loan him to Sao Paulo in 2011, and this year have done the same again, after they could not persuade the Brazillian club to part with a satisfactory fee for the 25 year old.

Departing Strikers:

Nicklas Bendtner spent 2011/12 on loan in the North East, with Sunderland, after the club were unable to find a buyer for him in Summer 2011. He enjoyed a successful Euro 2012, after a so-so season, which has raised interest on the continent, however despite his agent saying in June how in demand Bendtner was, he is still at the club in August. Wenger has said he wants the Dane to move on, so if Arsenal are, again, thwarted  in their quest to sell him, expect Bendtner to head back off on loan.

Park Ju-Young must go down as one of Wenger's worst buys, after six appearances and one goal, Wenger has confirmed that the South Korean's future lies elsewhere. There have been murmurs of interest from QPR and from the Middle East. He has been part of the South Korea squad that has reached the semi-finals of the Olympic football competition, so he is unlikely to move anywhere before the competition finishes, his could be a last minute departure.

Marouane Chamakh had been linked with a move away, with clubs in Italy, France and Turkey said to be interested, but nothing has materialised, and having lead the Arsenal attack during the Asia tour, the Moroccan seems set for at least another season at the Emirates, in which he will hope to get more game time than over the last season and a half.

Robin van Persie revealed his desire to leave in a controversial statement at the beginning of July, but despite missing Arsenal's Asia Tour and offers from Juventus and both Manchester clubs the Dutchman still remains at Arsenal. Manchester City manager Roberto Mancini today conceded defeat in the race to sign van Persie, and Juventus' position has been considerably weakened after their manager Antonio Conte became embroiled in the latest match-fixing scandal to blight Serie A. Manchester United remain interested, but are unwilling to match the Gunners' £20m asking price. There is a growing possibility that van Persie will remain an Arsenal player in September.

Carlos Vela has already left the club, joining Real Sociedad for somewhere in the region of £6m. Arsenal are understood to have included both buy-back and a 50% sell on clauses in the deal. Vela endured a frustrating few years at Arsenal, never quite living up to his potential, but he seems to have found a home in La Liga.

Joel Cambell has also headed for Spain. Despite a successful season in Ligue 1 with Lorient and breaking into the Costa Rican team, the young striker has again been denied a work permit, so will spend the campaign with Real Betis, before hoping to finally make his Arsenal debut in 2013/14.

Benik Afobe has headed off to Lancashire, to spend the season on loan at Bolton Wanderers. A well trodden path during Owen Coyle's tenure there, Afobe will be hoping to impress this term, before trying to challenge for the first team next season.

Incoming Players:

All of Arsenal's strengthening so far this summer has been in attacking positions, with strikers Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski arriving at the club from Montpellier and FC Köln respectively. Tall, good in the air and solid with his feet, Giroud had a fantastic season on the way to the Ligue 1 title in 2011/12. He will be hoping to carry that form across into the Premier League, as he makes yet another step up, having worked his way through the top three divisions in France so far.

Lukas Podolski's 2011/12 was far more forgettable. He played at a good level, but suffered the despair of relegation as his sweet left foot was unable to keep FC Köln in the German top flight. Currently without a squad number, Podolski is hankering after van Persie's number 10 shirt, and will be hoping to lead the line as effectively as the Dutchman did last season. If RVP does stay with the Gunners, Podolski will be an option wide left.

Malaga's financial troubles have meant that their stars are there to be bought at bargain basement prices. Salomon Rondon has already joined Russian side Rubin Kazan and farewell Tweets have already been sent to Santi Cazorla who is understood to have joined Arsenal, although his transfer is yet to be formally announced by either club.
6/8/2012 21:00GMT Update: BBC Sport have reported that Cazorla is in Germany with the squad for a pre-season training camp and friendly against FC Köln (which was part of the Podolski deal) and will be formally announced on Tuesday.

Another player who is likely to join is Turkish midfielder Nuri Sahin, who has been told by Real Madrid that he can go out on loan for the season. With Jack Wilshere out until at least October, Wenger is interested in bringing Sahin into his squad for the season. If it does materialise, this will likely be completed in the next couple of weeks.

So, despite the expectations for this to be one of the busiest summers of the Wenger era, things have been fairly quiet at the Emirates, with only two players certainly joining the club, and just Carlos Vela leaving the club permanently and for a fee. The rest of the month promises to be interesting as Arsenal ramp up their preparations for the new season.

Confirmed Departures:

Benik Afobe to Bolton Wanderers [Season Loan]

Manuel Almunia to Watford [Free]

Joel Campbell to Real Betis [Season Loan]

Denilson to Sao Paulo [Season Loan]

Carlos Vela to Real Sociedad [Undisclosed est. £6m]

Confirmed Arrivals:

Olivier Giroud from Montpellier [Undisclosed]

Lukas Podolski from FC Köln [Undisclosed]