Arsene Wenger looks to trump Liverpool by winning the race for Aston Villa’s skipper!

With Arsenal now lacking in the defensive midfielder department, and considering Aston Villa manager Martin O’Neill’s admission that the Gunners had been in contact, is a bid for Gareth Barry in the offing?
Aston Villain, Gareth Barry, once a respected captain with the midlands club, may now struggle to look his head coach, Martin O Neill, in the eye considering his outbursts toward the Northern Irishman over the summer.

The midlands club remain rigid on their asking price for the England international. Meanwhile speculation concerning Liverpool’s initial interest has died down. Instead, Arsenal have emerged as contenders for the utility man’s signature. (goal.com)

Gareth Barry has gone back to training at the midlands club even though he has almost certainly played his last game for the club. Comments made to a tabloid some weeks ago appear to have been a death knell to his long distinguished Aston Villa career however Liverpool apparently haven’t got the funds for a move as they have not managed to offload Xabi Alonso, hence the arrival of Arsenal on the scene. Wenger is clearly looking to beef up his midfield and in many ways Barry could be a perfect addition, he is a player at his peak and someone who could ably replace Mathieu Flamini in the Emirates midfield. Do Gunners fans see the England man as a player who could make an impact in north London?