The search for a keeper to challenge Almunia at the Emirates seemed to be losing impetus, but the story below could well signal a very intelligent signing indeed!
Arsene Wenger could be ready to make a shock £2.5 million bid for Blackburn’s 37-year-old keeper Brad Friedel, according to reports.
The American looks likely to end his eight-year stay at Ewood Park following the arrival of Paul Ince, with the Rovers boss reportedly keen to make Spurs keeper Paul Robinson his new number one.
Friedel – who only signed a two-year extension to his contract with the Lancashire club in February – has attracted the attention of Manchester City and Aston Villa. (West Essex and East London Guardian)
With Jens Lehmann out of the picture and Fabianski not quite ready for the big time, a move for a keeper in the ilk of Friedel makes perfect sense. If Arsene gets the Blackburn goalie, he helps keep his Spanish number one on his toes but does so with a keeper who a) doesn’t cost much and b) isn’t going to undermine Almunia’s position as clearly Brad is nearing the end of his career.
Surely the American would prefer a move to north London instead of moving to the likes of Man City or Villa? Do Arsenal fans think this would be an inspired solution to their back-up keeper problem?