1. Morgan Schneiderlin – Southampton
According to reports, Wenger has opted not to challenge Manchester United for the signature of the Saints midfielder, believing that his price-tag of £25m wouldn’t be a wise investment. Nonetheless, as with any piece of gossip in the press, and with the Red Devils having not confirmed any deal with the Frenchman, the Gunners are certainly not out of the chase for his signature.
Southampton were quite simply stunning last season – with their 8-0 demolition of Sunderland a major highlight – in a campaign where they threatened for a top four finish. Not bad considering the club sold the previous season’s star players Adam Lallana, Dejan Lovren, Rickie Lambert and Calum Chambers in the summer.
And Schneiderlin was at the heart of their success.
The 25-year-old averaged more tackles per-game, with 3.7, than the Blues’ Matic, 3.6, and boasted a pass success rate of 89.3%.
With fine experience in the Premier League, Schneiderlin could take little time to settle into his rhythm at the Emirates.
While Wenger may feel that £25m is a steep price; let’s face it – in today’s market and for a player at his peak – the Saints are well within their rights to demand such a figure.
