Transfer Talk: Tuesday 10th May

Karim Benzema

Some rumours have surfaced, once again, that Arsenal are interested in Benzema. Supposedly, Wenger had already put in a bid of €25 million, but Arsenal fans will know that this sounds unlike the Frenchman. Firstly, Wenger wouldn’t have already put a bid on the table, before the end of the season. Secondly, Wenger has rarely spent such large sums on money, although his most recent transfers have been relatively high. Eduardo (£7.5 million), Sagna (€9-11 million), Nasri (£12 million), Arshavin (£15 million) and Vermaelen (€10-12 million) are examples of such transfers.

Having scored 23 goals in 45 games this season, I highly doubt that Benzema will be allowed to leave. On the other hand, with Ronaldo, Higuain, Kaka, Di Maria, Ozil and possibly Adebayor (should they decide to sign him on a permanent deal) in the squad, Real Madrid have a fantastic set of attacking talent.

Likeliness Rating: 1.5/5

Christopher Samba

Despite signing a new contract until 2015, the strong CB may reconsider his future in the summer. I don’t need to point out that Arsenal lack a leader, always concede from set pieces, lack height blah blah blah… This all indicates that such a transfer is rather likely. Samba recently said the following,

“Everyone knows I am ambitious.”

Such a quote may show that he will be willing to force through a transfer to Arsenal. As Blackburn sit only 3 points off relegation, demotion to the Championship is possible. Should this happen, I reckon Samba’s potential move to the Gunners would be even more likely. Furthermore, the 27 year-old came out with this quote last week,

“I think a move to Arsenal was very close in January but that is life. You have to continue.”

What?! Why didn’t Wenger take that opportunity?! The manager better follow through with his wishes and buy the defender in the next few months.

Likeliness Rating: 4/5

Pepe Reina

With Liverpool’s recent resurgence and Szczesny’s rise to number 1, this particular transfer rumour is looking increasingly unlikely. However, Liverpool have now failed to get Champions League football for two years running, which may encourage Reina to seek an opportunity to play in that competition.

Arsenal’s goalkeeping crisis has been well-documented, but it seems to have been reduced somewhat in recent months. On the other hand, aerial threats from teams such as Bolton and Stoke may have been reduced by a more well organised defence, which is often controlled by the keeper. Ever since Reina shoved a Barca shirt on Fabregas, I haven’t had much reason to like him. All in all, I hope Wenger doesn’t make the transfer – the Spaniard is also bound to come with a hefty price tag.

Likeliness Rating: 0.5/5