What Arsenal’s starting lineup could look like at the end of the summer.
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It has been a frustrating summer so far for Arsenal fans, with Arsene Wenger still to bring in any notable signings in this transfer window. Big names such as Gonzalo Higuain, Luis Suarez and Luiz Gustavo have been on the agenda, but have all slipped through the net. With just over a week remaining to bring in some new faces, we look at what Arsenal’s starting lineup could look like if they succeed in bringing in some of their realistic targets in every position that is currently in need of strengthening.
Defence
Starting in goal, Arsenal have been linked with a surprising move for Real Madrid’s Iker Casillas, after the Spaniard was again left on the bench for the first game of the La Liga season. Although Arsenal fans would be in dreamland if Wenger could pull this signing off, there is a far more realistic and cheaper option closer to home with Queens Park Rangers’ Julio Cesar.
The Brazilian has been linked with the Gunners a few times since suffering relegation with Harry Redknapp’s side, and looks like one of the bargains of the summer waiting to happen.
Arsenal are also thought to be chasing Swansea City’s Ashley Williams as they look to tighten up at the back. After a poor defensive display in the team’s shock 3-1 opening day defeat at home to Aston Villa, Wenger has clearly decided he can’t rely on Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny for an entire season, particularly with backup Thomas Vermaelen struggling for fitness and confidence.
Williams could cost around £10million, but has been one of the Premier League’s most solid defenders over the last couple of seasons, and has admitted he is flattered by interest being shown in him by the Gunners.
Manchester City’s backup right-back Micah Richards is also being linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, though with Bacary Sagna and Carl Jenkinson, that position is probably suitably covered. Kieran Gibbs and Nacho Monreal are also two good options to rotate at left-back.