Apparently Arsenal are in for Melo… in exchange for Eboue. Click here if you are Italian. Read on if you’re not!
The Director of Fiorentina, Pantaleo Corvino deny the voices of these last hours of the market, which sees the player Felipe Melo certain other clubs and who are any meetings to define the transfer of the player states that:
1. – If the player had already reached an agreement on its behalf with any Club, the clause reserve determined by the same player at 25 million, does not provide any technical counterparts, unless it has the approval of Fiorentina.
2nd -The Director also states that Arsenal FC are the only club that has bid to the figure in the clause reserve.
3rd – Fiorentina, in turn, has proposed that the companies reduce the amount in the clause reserve, entering into negotiations for Eboue the right quarterback.
It’s on the official Viola website… that would be a turnaround!
It does make you wonder why he signed a new contract? For a couple of weeks extra pay? Or to secure a larger fee for the club that launched him. Either way, it seems like a very good deal for both teams if it happens. Cheers to Mike for pointing us in the right direction!
So, what do you think? Good signing, are you pleased? What becomes of Denilson and Song?
So many questions… all day to answer them!
Le Grove is now smart phone compatible!
Pedro
Geoff
July 4, 2009 at 15:13
hi
July 4, 2009 at 15:14
am I the only one reading?
July 4, 2009 at 15:14
hello hi hello,hello,hello,hi
July 4, 2009 at 15:15
It doesn’t make a lot of sense in English does it?
July 4, 2009 at 15:15
BBK
Have you come to brighten up my day?
How are you?
July 4, 2009 at 15:15
no
July 4, 2009 at 15:16
im good tho
July 4, 2009 at 15:18
WTF?
July 4, 2009 at 15:18
glad to hear it bbk.
July 4, 2009 at 15:19
I just hope Melo lives up to the expectation put on him by all us grovers.
July 4, 2009 at 15:19
http://www.oleole.com/media/main/podcasts/arsecast/ADE_BROCHURE.pdf
this is funny. Someone has too much spare time
July 4, 2009 at 15:19
3 posts in one day. Is that a record?
July 4, 2009 at 15:21
breaking news ribery in london for talks with spurs
July 4, 2009 at 15:24
Umm is this a joke? If not, is this a eboue + cash deal or just eboue?
July 4, 2009 at 15:24
This is excellent news imo… question is: who covers right back next season?
July 4, 2009 at 15:25
So Eboue is gone. Who will be our back up right back now? Surely not Toure?
I thing we should just buy a really cheap but reliable option from a small club.
July 4, 2009 at 15:25
Breaking News!!! Wonderboy bums Venus Williams whilst Serena plays his rusty trombone on the centre court of Wimbledon, live on telly!!
July 4, 2009 at 15:25
eboue + cash… he can’t be worth many pennies
July 4, 2009 at 15:26
It has to be Melo plus cash for Eboue. Why would it be any other way…..
July 4, 2009 at 15:27
I think toure stu, could be a chance to keep both toure and gallas. Or even have toure starting at right back ahead of sagna
July 4, 2009 at 15:27
I have to admit this is bloody great news!!!!
What we have bought this year:
Ramsey-5M
Nasri-15M
Arshavin-16M
Vermy-11M
(Hopefully) Melo-15Mish+Eboue
62M ISH spent!!!
Who said we don’t spend much??
That will also be without all renewing contracts etc….
July 4, 2009 at 15:28
toure doesn’t like playing right back as he proved against liverpool in the c.league last year
July 4, 2009 at 15:29
Gotta wait to see if it actually happens first Samir, I’d be quite happy with it, if it happens then would imagine that’s transfer dealing done with, unless we sell people, or maybe sign a new right back?!
July 4, 2009 at 15:29
I will siggest a right back from another lesser league. Someone who will be content to sit in the bench at a big club until he gets his chance to prove himself.
July 4, 2009 at 15:30
can’t see toure replacing sagna as right back
July 4, 2009 at 15:31
I dunno Stu, I wouldn’t mind someone coming in straight into the first team, though unlikely
July 4, 2009 at 15:31
Toure is scatty regardless of where he plays but I think he’s actually a very good right back and better than Sagna going forward.
July 4, 2009 at 15:32
Lets face it. Eboue was never the back up right back. He was a midfielder fr us.
When we had an injury at the end of 2 seasons ago to Sagna, Toure was put at right back and Song in the middle. Eboue was always fit but still played in midfield.
July 4, 2009 at 15:33
As a footballer I’d rather Toure than Sagna at right back, but I dunno if Toure’s stamina could allow him to play there game in game out
July 4, 2009 at 15:33
So would i A, Srna, Motta Steinsson
. But i just cant see it happening. Sagna wont just be dropped.
July 4, 2009 at 15:33
Anyway, who gives a fook about cover right back.
The arrival of Melo is the priority here.
Talking of right backs though, Lassana Diarra was a brilliant one.
July 4, 2009 at 15:34
we have that hoyte fellow… coqueling can put in a shift as well
July 4, 2009 at 15:34
yeah I’d agree with that Paulinho
July 4, 2009 at 15:34
Toure has even said himself that when he plays full back he is bolloxed after 20 minutes. Its to much running. Believe it or not Wenger is right….Toure just doesnt have te stamina.
July 4, 2009 at 15:34
Isn’t Dabo a RB?
July 4, 2009 at 15:34
He could be Stu, Eboue was when Sagna came in, happened out of nowhere!
July 4, 2009 at 15:37
IF we get Melo. Do you lot think we will play 2DM’s as that’s usually the case with him?
Maybe a 4-2-3-1. With either a:
Nasri-Melo
Denilson-Melo
Diaby-Melo
Or Fabregas-Melo partnership?
__________Almunia____________
Sagna-Gallas-Vermy-Clichy
________Fab-Melo_____________
RVP_______Nasri_______Arshavin
__________Dudu_______________
Maybe Rosicky in there somewhere….Or Ade/Nick upfront?
July 4, 2009 at 15:38
Love that about rugby. Mass brawl and the ref just tells them all to calm down and plays on (but apparently give a very very harsh penalty). Not bookings or anything and everyone just gets on with it.
July 4, 2009 at 15:39
Was always gonna be 4-2-3-1 Samir, and I agree with that team as well, apart from think will be VP centrally, Eduardo left, Arshavin right. Maybe Rosicky rather than Nasri too, but that’s the shape, and most of the players! Looks very impressive, and very strong bench too!
July 4, 2009 at 15:39
If we do sign Melo, then I think we can safely say Wenger has had a moment of clarity, similar to when George Foreman collapsed after a fight in 77 and found god.
We may just have Arsene pre 04 back.
July 4, 2009 at 15:39
melo can’t do all the defensive work himself…
i reckon at least denilson or song plyas with melo
July 4, 2009 at 15:39
*plays
July 4, 2009 at 15:41
If Melo has to play alongside another DM then i dont fucking want him . The point of buyinf=g a DM is so we wont have to play Denilsong.
July 4, 2009 at 15:41
Admittedly this looks promising, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. He hasn’t signed yet
July 4, 2009 at 15:41
Choy, the point is he can attempt to do it a hell of a lot better than Denilson and Song.
July 4, 2009 at 15:41
So are we blogging here? I am confused…
July 4, 2009 at 15:42
Choy there’s only room for one defensive midfielder mate! Not 3
July 4, 2009 at 15:42
Samir, dont listen to A. That team is spot on and is what we should play. Eduardo left is pointless because he is more or less a poacher and VP isnt suited to the middle on his own.
July 4, 2009 at 15:43
Do I need to repost. Damn!
July 4, 2009 at 15:43
yeah pedro… but gilberto was the real DM for brazil if you remember.
July 4, 2009 at 15:43
Apart from Nasri. Rosicky should be there instead.
July 4, 2009 at 15:44
YES Choy. And Liverani plays the DM role behind Melo at Fiorentina.
July 4, 2009 at 15:44
yes he is an improvement over denilson and song, i’ll give you that,
but he has to partner cesc fabregas.
July 4, 2009 at 15:44
The best way to defend is to attack choy!!
If we keep the ball like barca we shall be ok….He’s a strong and physical player….He should be able to do it with a great back 4 behind him! Fabregas can help out at times… Just like the Masch+Alonso partnership.
Melo our Mascherano and Fabregas our Alonso but better obviously!
July 4, 2009 at 15:44
ha we’ll see stu – VP when he plays deeper slows the build up play down, and wenger played him through the middle at the end of the season. Eduardo is good from the left, making very intelligent runs from deep coming in through the middle, i’m sure it’ll vary massively though!
July 4, 2009 at 15:45
were will i play (joke)
July 4, 2009 at 15:46
i’m happy to see him come if he does…. just 4 years trophyless does make you a bit sceptical.
July 4, 2009 at 15:46
Almunia + Fab
Sagna-Gallas-Verm-Gael + Song,JD,Gibbs,Toure
Rosicky-Fab-Melo-Arsh + Nasri,Walcott,Denilson,Vela,Song
RvP-Dudu + Nick,vela,Walcott
I don’t want to jump to conclusions but i think this is the best most balanced team in the PL. Well maybe i did jump but heck who cares?
July 4, 2009 at 15:47
All I know is I saw Melo roughly a month back playing against Paraguay (who were top of the table and are a decent side) and he was brilliant. He’s got an excellent passing range and is a very strong player.
July 4, 2009 at 15:47
I have to say Paulinho… if Wenger pulls this deal off… we’ve had a good summer and I’ll be excited going into the new season.
July 4, 2009 at 15:47
Stu Liverani left Fiorentina last summer….
July 4, 2009 at 15:47
So what about cover for right back? Can Vermalen play there or what? Or is it gonna be Toure who does the job when necessary?
July 4, 2009 at 15:48
is it real ????????
July 4, 2009 at 15:49
but our best dancer might leave
July 4, 2009 at 15:49
WTF?
July 4, 2009 at 15:49
melo can dance
July 4, 2009 at 15:49
No V can’t OGC, he’s a left sided player. I’d say Kolo would cover if we didn’t sign anyone
July 4, 2009 at 15:49
OGC, I think Sagna has been told he can’t get injured next year.
Plus, I’m sure Kolo can play there… or maybe Jet? Didn’t he play there in preseason? Gavin hoyte is a possibility? Senderos?
I am sure Diaby hasn’t had a crack there either!
July 4, 2009 at 15:50
I am excited… really excited!
My ‘now now now’ side is being satisfied.
July 4, 2009 at 15:51
Eduardo is really similar to RVP, I don’t think either of them are suited to a lone striker role. Also, I really think Arshavin should be given an opportunity to play in his Zenit position. We have sooo much attacking talent whatever happens!
Bender
RVP/Dudu-Arshavin-Walcott
Cesc-Melo
Clichy-Verma-Gallas-Clichy
Almunia
is one possibility…
RVP/Dudu-Bender
Arsh/Nasri-Cesc-Melo-Walcott
Clichy-Verma-Gallas-Clichy
Almunia
is another.
July 4, 2009 at 15:51
Pedro JET is very left footed, he can’t play right back! In pre season Lansbury played there, and for the reserves a couple of times, as well as Coquelin early on. My personal choice if not Kolo would be coquelin
July 4, 2009 at 15:51
It’s not a straight swap. I think it says that Arsenal are the only team that offered an acceptable amount, but did not reach the buy out clause. So they accepted Eboue as part of the deal.
And let’s not forget we have Gavin Hoyte for RB cover.
July 4, 2009 at 15:51
(?)
July 4, 2009 at 15:51
We’ve got Nasri who can apparently play anywhere so we’ll stick him there. But realistically i think Gallas could play there but toure would be better suited.
July 4, 2009 at 15:52
Looks like this Melo thing is true. The quotes come from the club, first refuting the Juve link then saying they are talking with us. “A significant departure” Eboue lol Well Well!! good news if we pull it off. i have seen quite a bit of him and he is definitely worthy of a Arsenal shirt. needs to buck his ideas on the way he throws himself in to tackles but excellent in all departments and would add discipline and steel something Eboue/Song/Denilson lacks.
July 4, 2009 at 15:52
Not a fan of Hoyte personally….
July 4, 2009 at 15:52
Does anyone thing Fiorentina is ‘doing an agent’ – announcing one club’s interest to start a bidding war?
Why have they announced this? Temporary insanity? Fans kicking in the club’s front door demanding answers?
July 4, 2009 at 15:53
Fabster, I’m aware it’s not a straight swap!
That would have been an amazing deal if it was that…
July 4, 2009 at 15:53
Let’s hope this means bye bye to one of Denilson or Diaby, but it’ll probably mean Song to CB.
July 4, 2009 at 15:53
Remember Wenger said he had 2 more targets…..
One more to sign then if we sign the mighty Melo!
Maybe Toure/Hoyte will cover RB.
So that second target might be a RW especially seeing Eboue is down as a midfielder on Arse.com? Hopefully it’s Afellay next!
July 4, 2009 at 15:53
Can Melo play right back?
July 4, 2009 at 15:54
adebarndoor, The thought has crossed my mind
July 4, 2009 at 15:54
Melo isnt good enough lads! He needs another DM sitting deep.
July 4, 2009 at 15:55
If Melo doesn’t work out it would suck. I always thought Eboue was a pretty useful player and does a decent job at both right back and right midfield.
Is Gavin Hoyte still at Arsenal? He’s pure shyte. I don’t want him anywhere near the first team.
July 4, 2009 at 15:55
What about Tasci as cover at right back?
July 4, 2009 at 15:55
I’d personally prefer to keep Eboue because he’s very versatile and give Fiorentina Diaby and Silvestre………For free.
July 4, 2009 at 15:55
he’s right footed wy not
July 4, 2009 at 15:55
We should buy Dario Srna or Steinsson.
July 4, 2009 at 15:56
Or Motta!!!
July 4, 2009 at 15:56
Let’s not get ahead of ourselves, wait till it’s on arse.com
Really excited though, finally a quality DM. Naldo to sign soon as well.
Now we’re just waiting for Adebayor to piss off so we can sign Chamakh.
July 4, 2009 at 15:57
July 4, 2009 at 15:57
Stu that other DM beside Melo would be Song and then Denilson when he left for the ACN. We saw Wenger using Fabregas higher up the pitch last season so I expect an attacking midfield of Arshavin, Cesc and NAsri next season while rotating with Walcott and Rosicky.
July 4, 2009 at 15:58
Fabster, that could be 3 years…
July 4, 2009 at 15:58
No way we’re signing chamakh fabster, and i’d guess if melo is coming in then naldo thing isn’t true, have to wait and see though
If melo actually happens i wouldn’t be surprised to see it being our last signing
July 4, 2009 at 15:58
I think I jizzed a little when I read the title, wouldn’t happen to have an Italian Grovers, would we?
July 4, 2009 at 16:00
Wasnt that impressed with Melo in the confederations cup, but if this does turn out to be true then I will go with Wengers call.
Remember though, Eboue can potentially still fuck this up for us, and there is no an agreement yet
July 4, 2009 at 16:00
Hi Guys,
Check this out
http://arsenalite.blogspot.com
Thanks,
Arun Prithviraj
July 4, 2009 at 16:00
BBK, that clip doesnt help at all. We are after a DM not someone who can pass. We already have those tyoe of players.
July 4, 2009 at 16:01
we also got Lansbury as cover for rightback, he was really good for the reserves last year.
I still would like to see a stronger GK someone who can command the area better, a lehman/seaman type character.
I reckon Denilson will still come good, but is still a couple of years away from doing so – Diaby, he is too inconsistent – plus I think with the experience and technical skill of someone like Melo – Denilson, Diaby and Song can learn from them and also step up their game.
I am not sure about Rosicky though – i think we will see more of Wilshire in the first team, which will be fantastic, he is one of the reasons why i renewed my season ticket, along with Gibbs and Walcott. I also have high hopes for Jay Simpson
July 4, 2009 at 16:01
Come to think of it Ade is our only true CF.
July 4, 2009 at 16:02
Afternoon all!
I have to anwser to the question “What becomes of Song and Denilson?”
Doesn’t bother me really mate.
I care about Arsenal more than them.
Song will become the centre-back we should be signing and Denilson will become a squad member.
July 4, 2009 at 16:02
NOOOOOO nt EBOUE plzzzzzz,take sendo/silvy and diaby instread,we need Eboue as a TOP cover 4 sagna,him and ADE MUST STAY,IT HAS 2 BE ANOTHER WAY,CUMNNN MELO
July 4, 2009 at 16:02
What about the translation thing is the side roll thingy >>>>>>
If someone copy and pastes the article in italian will it transate into english?
July 4, 2009 at 16:02
stu he can sit and spray passes around,song can’t do that neither can denilson to that affect he looks like he can sniff danger out better then both of the two in question
July 4, 2009 at 16:03
Get Ade out and I am a content gooner.
July 4, 2009 at 16:03
Goonerboy Coquelin played there much more for the reserves last year, Lansbury only played a few times, but either of them would do me!
Fabianski is the future number one, he’ll take over this season.
How can you not be sure about rosicky?! or you mean his injury – i think he could be in the running for our player of the season this year!
July 4, 2009 at 16:03
Sup Wrighty!
July 4, 2009 at 16:04
don’t really give a fuck what happens to denilsong they can take bendtner aswell while they are at it that should seal the deal
July 4, 2009 at 16:04
Anyone else complains about Melo signing because Eboue is going gets a yellow card…
A potentially world class recruitment is coming in… and leaving is an average right back who more often than not brought shame on the club.
We’ll deal without him.
July 4, 2009 at 16:04
We don’t want a true CF Mayank, we’re gonna play like Barca, everyone rotating, so a true CF doesn’t fit!
July 4, 2009 at 16:05
well fucking said pedro
July 4, 2009 at 16:05
Song = Centre back
Denilson = Cover
July 4, 2009 at 16:05
Sup Samir!
July 4, 2009 at 16:05
Mayank, by CF do you mean the only forward we have that cant play football? Because if thats what you mean then i agree.
July 4, 2009 at 16:05
denilsong=cunt’s
July 4, 2009 at 16:06
Yes Pedro, that is correct!
July 4, 2009 at 16:06
I think you’re right Pedro, he signed a new deal as his way of thanking Fiorentina, allowing them to negotiate a higher bid. His buy out clause was made quite clear.
Wonder what the Fiorentina fans reaction will be to the signing of Eboue, after his agent claimed they weren’t a big enough club for him…
July 4, 2009 at 16:07
Afternoon Wrighty!
You excited about the potential deal?
July 4, 2009 at 16:07
Wrighty and Pedro are spot on in their accessments of Song and Denilson.
July 4, 2009 at 16:07
Purple Monkey Dishwasher
July 4, 2009 at 16:07
Don’t forget he’s been signed by JUVENTUS.
http://www.footylatest.com/arsenal-target-felipe-melo-signs-for-juventus/6972
All those bashing Eboue are clueless. He’s an excellent solid right sided full-back and has been an essential utility player covering injured players.
He’s an Arsenal player, so shut up.
July 4, 2009 at 16:08
Wrighty, did you take Linsey up on her offer so nicely out to you on your blog?
July 4, 2009 at 16:09
No Stu i mean a Drogba type player, we can do well w/o him mind you but RvP, Dudu, Nik are all used to playing just off the striker. Dudu is the strongest competitor for that spot becasue of his superior technique.
July 4, 2009 at 16:10
Jesus and at 25 Melo would come in as one of the oldest players in the squad.
July 4, 2009 at 16:10
From that Vid Melo looks pretty handy. A DM does need to be able to dribble and pass, needs to be able to attack when needed, Otherwise you may as well just play five at the back.
A defensive midfielder does exactly that.
July 4, 2009 at 16:10
Haha stu i read that one too, she’s the one who wanted wrighty to ahem ‘cock her ass’
July 4, 2009 at 16:10
well am happy to here dis bt am goin to miss eboue cos its arsenal best subtitute its arsenal’s osea well i pray d deal is done very fast
July 4, 2009 at 16:11
Arsenal1, if he was so good… why did Arsene buy Sagna…
I rest my case.
Yellow card.
July 4, 2009 at 16:11
A1A, how many times has he started a game as full back since Sagna arrived? I would hazzard a guess at no more than 5.
July 4, 2009 at 16:11
Hi there Pedro!
I’m pretty excited mate! Its nice to see Arsenal are doing their transfer’s early for a change.
Has Wenger seen the light?
Usually I’m up till midnight on deadline day shouting at the TV for Arsenal to sign someone! Ha ha
July 4, 2009 at 16:12
LOL Mayank thats the one!
July 4, 2009 at 16:12
good signing if it happen
July 4, 2009 at 16:12
Ha ha Stu!
What was all that about?? It was funny
July 4, 2009 at 16:13
Wrighty7, I agree mate. It’s clear tha Wenger could feel the discontentment swelling from within the ranks.
Perhaps this is why RVP has finally decided to renew
July 4, 2009 at 16:13
stu thats what a dm does., just sits and sprays
July 4, 2009 at 16:13
Yeah Wrighty, came out of nowhere and was a bit wierd. She was pretty determined aswell…
July 4, 2009 at 16:13
Not really Marko
Al(28)
Sagna(26)-Gallas(32)-Verm(23)-Gael(23)
Rosicky(28)-Fab(22)-Melo(25)-Arsh(27)
RvP(26)-Dudu(26)
Its pretty well balanced in the age department i assure you. Plus we have prodigies like Nasri and Walcott(to me at least) on the bench.
July 4, 2009 at 16:14
Much better translation here.
http://uk.eurosport.yahoo.com/04072009/63/viola-firm-melo.html
“In case the footballer has already reached an agreement with any club, the release clause fixed with the player himself is 25 million euros. We would not contemplate any exchange, unless it is to the liking of Fiorentina.
“Arsenal is the only club to have come close to the sum established by the release clause.
“Fiorentina in turn proposed to the aforementioned club a reduction in the amount set by the release clause by including right-back (Emmanuel) Eboue in the deal.”
—-
So Eboue could still potentially fuck it up for us.
July 4, 2009 at 16:14
At the risk of a yellow card
I will miss Eboue, he is a charachter and likeable chap, and a bloody good RB. I think he was surplus though and despite putting in the effort, he was an awful midfielder and I think this move will be good for both Eboue and Arsenal.
And if this does go through, I would like to think we would all wish him well at his new club.
July 4, 2009 at 16:15
In signing Vermaelen and hopefully Melo thats a real signal of intent on Wenger’s part. At United letting go of Ronaldo and Tevez and replacing with Valencia and Owen is a real signal that Fergie’s lost the plot.
July 4, 2009 at 16:15
Yellow card Pat
July 4, 2009 at 16:15
If Eboue leaves who’s going to make me laugh at games now
July 4, 2009 at 16:16
I read that the other day, i expect Linsey to be a fat beardy bloke.
July 4, 2009 at 16:17
I gotta say “Well in” to Mark and his friend from Italy who phoned him about the news!
July 4, 2009 at 16:17
Agreed PTG, he was a very likable character in the dressing room as well. Good luck eboue, teach those Italians some football. Hope i haven’t spoken too soon.
July 4, 2009 at 16:17
eboue really cant be to picky about what club he goes to,he’s lucky arsenal gave him the time of day
July 4, 2009 at 16:17
Diaby the new utility man? Expect to see him in defence next year.
July 4, 2009 at 16:17
Just saying it’s refreshing for us to be signing somebody in their mid 20’s.
July 4, 2009 at 16:17
I wish people would stop referring to Eboue as a right back. He never played there apart from 1 season about 5 years ago. He was somewhat versatile but by no means was he capable of playing well in all those positions.
He was an ok player. Nothing to get upset about of he leaves imo.
July 4, 2009 at 16:17
we need worldclass winger like ribery or ronaldo
July 4, 2009 at 16:18
This would be a really dumb move.
Melo isnt a DM, and I cant see why we would want him.
He reminds me of edu but with a little more power. Would probably be a good signing to play instead of fabregas. He would change our way of playing back towards the way the invincibles worked, with a powerful CM pair and the creativity coming from the wide players and strikers. Saying this, to pay over £8m for melo would be stupid
Also eboue has just finally turned the corner where his true talent is starting to show as an attacking fullback or wide midfielder. To give him away to fiorentina would be nuts. He would be an absolute monster in serie a – hes too fast, powerful and skillful for most players there. La viola would be laughing all the way to the bank on deal.
July 4, 2009 at 16:18
Hmm….. We might be losing our Ivorian trio this year.(Ade, Kolo and Eboue). Wenger no longer likes Africans?
July 4, 2009 at 16:19
World class winger? Ronaldo wasnt even a winger imo. Their job is to create goals. He probably got about 10 assists in his whole united career.
July 4, 2009 at 16:19
Too true Honest Bill!
July 4, 2009 at 16:19
Mayank we have Adebayor as that Drogba type player..
July 4, 2009 at 16:19
Its really great news.It hasn’t happened yet so maybe we shouldn’t get our hopes too high.If he joins it will be our most expensive transfer right?
July 4, 2009 at 16:19
All this means is that Sagna has to work overtime on his crossing. Beacuse in the confed cup , all Melp did was to pass to the RB Maicon.
Sagna would hate this guy !!
July 4, 2009 at 16:20
Fabster, how ignorant of you. Ade is a togoleese(sp) not an Ivorian!
July 4, 2009 at 16:20
fabster – ade is togan not ivorian
July 4, 2009 at 16:20
Stu – eboue was bought as a right back, its where he plays regularly for the ivory coast. its where he played before we signed him. Its where we played him for the first season where he gained recognition in europe. Its fair to call him a right back…
July 4, 2009 at 16:21
At least by getting rid of the Africans we wont lose them to the ACN…. Really annoying that cup is!
July 4, 2009 at 16:21
Toure as a backup to sagna is not a bad idea.Wenger just might go out and spend money on a young RB though.
July 4, 2009 at 16:22
How about if we do lose Eboue and we have Walcott, who isn’t quite good enough yet, why don’t we then sign Eden Hazard who would love to join us as cover for the wings or give Jacky boy or Merida a chance next season.
July 4, 2009 at 16:22
i think that is the thinking behind it
and also he realises that long term they are not that football intelligent as europeans
July 4, 2009 at 16:22
mixed feelings if it happens…
love to get melo…
hate to see eboue go.
July 4, 2009 at 16:22
No Davi, he is not a right back for us. His position has been changed. Even arse.com, who get their info from the club and Wenger, have him in as a midfielder. For arsenal he is NOT a right back.
July 4, 2009 at 16:23
Davi on the arsenal website Eboue is put down as a Midfielder…
http://www.arsenal.com/first-team/players
July 4, 2009 at 16:23
oops….sorry. Ade is togoloese. Blonde moment.
July 4, 2009 at 16:24
blinding deal IF it happens.. they could take sendross aswell
July 4, 2009 at 16:24
Blazon, im the other way around. Happy to see Eboue go but not that excited at the prospect of Melo coming in.
Faceman, be careful what you say about that. Myself and A had a conversation about that months ago and he convinved me i was wrong.
July 4, 2009 at 16:24
Eboue is a natural RW. Since his days in Belgium.
How much do you reckon we’ll pay for Melo? 17m euros?
July 4, 2009 at 16:25
No , it wont be Nishant.
AW wont pay over 15 mil for Melo. NO way.
More so , given that Eboue is being mentioned as part-exchange.
July 4, 2009 at 16:25
Djourou is a better RB than toure. He defends better in that position at least. Toure can make better runs as he has more pace and attacking aggression, but as someone mentioned,his stamina is in question
July 4, 2009 at 16:25
It has just been on SSN.
July 4, 2009 at 16:25
I would rather lose Diaby and Silvestre tho.
July 4, 2009 at 16:26
Also, there is nothing about Arsenal accepting the proposal… You all know how Arsene can be. I would prefer if he offered Senderos, we have too many CBs.
July 4, 2009 at 16:26
Worried about cover for right back then we could go for Mamadou Dabo of St. Ettienne. He’s highly regarded in France and can play Right/Left back and in a Defensive Midfield capacity too.
July 4, 2009 at 16:27
No I know he plays more in midfield for us, but he is still naturally a right back. I thought that was the issue.
July 4, 2009 at 16:27
Patthegooner, SSN has been wrong before, they’re simply using the same source as us.
July 4, 2009 at 16:27
STU you don’t think melo is good enough
July 4, 2009 at 16:28
Lets have a bit of Eden Hazard now and job done.
July 4, 2009 at 16:28
davi… when eboue arrived from Belgium, he was a RW. It is his natural position before Arsene converted him to a RB.
July 4, 2009 at 16:28
I know Fabster, but hopefully they will do some digging and get some more info on it.
July 4, 2009 at 16:29
Who really cares about the semantics. he can play FB and RW, the point is, if this happens, it will be a sound move
July 4, 2009 at 16:30
Nish, i am undecided. Not convinced tat he is a proper DM.
July 4, 2009 at 16:30
If Arsenal were to reject this, there would be a horde of angry gooners wanting to know why… lol
July 4, 2009 at 16:30
Fabster – hes always played RB. He played Rb in his trial against ryan babel in the amsterdam tournament, he s always played there for ivory coast, and I was under the impression he played there for beveren – sounds like I might be wrong though
July 4, 2009 at 16:31
Eboue isnt a full back. We are losing a midfielder and getting a midfielder.
The only problem with that is we are losing a wide midfielder for yet another central one.
July 4, 2009 at 16:31
this is the eptimoe of the modern fickle gooner
6 months ago most were crying out for eboue to be sold.. now some are moaning that he is being swapped for a far far far superior player
nutters
July 4, 2009 at 16:32
I’d have Melo in before I’d have Cana. Just about. Even though I’m inclined to like Inler more than Melo. But who cares.
July 4, 2009 at 16:32
if we sign that naldo that weve been linked with he can apparently play anywhere across the back 4 because he’s good with both feet. So that would be the cover for sagna
July 4, 2009 at 16:32
Too right Faceman. Everyone wanted him gone asap months ago. Now loads want him to stay. Whats changed? A few decent performances?
July 4, 2009 at 16:33
Yeah, Inler would have been my first choice. Shame he rejected us.
July 4, 2009 at 16:33
some dancing
July 4, 2009 at 16:33
Dan, with his height tho he would be a shite full back. No pace im assuming. I dont want Naldo at all.
July 4, 2009 at 16:34
Cana is my first choice. Then……not Melo.
July 4, 2009 at 16:34
15 million is probably a bit too much for him.I thought he was good in the confed cup.He is strong and his passing is also fine.Don’t think its a bad trasnfer.After all wenger must have seen something to splash so much cash on him
July 4, 2009 at 16:34
Dan’s right. Naldo can play RB as well, I forgot about that.
July 4, 2009 at 16:34
Stu we only have 5 central midfielders that I can see and one of them is Ramsey so we don’t have enough in there in my opinion. United and Chelsea last season had an abundance of central midfielders.
July 4, 2009 at 16:34
Faceman – I’ve always liked eboue. Hes ridiculously talented, and I’ve just been waiting for him to use that effectively in matches.
He turned a corner this season and he Did start to use his skills effectively, and this has convinced some people hes worth keeping. I wouldnt call that fickle.. surely that’s basing ur opinion on evidence?
July 4, 2009 at 16:35
Out:
Kolo
Eboue
Adebayor
Denilson
In:
Vermaelen
Naldo
Melo
Chamakh
Perfect summer
July 4, 2009 at 16:36
he was better back in 06
July 4, 2009 at 16:36
Arsene played Eboue as a right mid last season but Eboue is at his best as a right back and we all know that. He’s a clown but he’s a good player in that position. Infact he’s one of the best right backs in the league. Sagna happen to be a far superior player but we do need good cover and there has been a lot of talk about Toure leaving to Citeh. That’s all I’m worried about really.
Melo isn’t an enforcer, he’s more of a Denilson type player and what we really need is an enforcer.
July 4, 2009 at 16:36
How much have you seen cana play?I havn’t really seen him play.I have seen melo play twice or thrice for fiorentina and he was kindaa imperssive
July 4, 2009 at 16:37
I dont get that either Faceman.
Eboue is surplus and this deal makes a lot of sense for all parties including Eboue.
I will miss him as a charachter but not as a right winger.
Not completely convinced this will happen though, looks like it is early days, there is no agreement, and in the wording it looks like Melo may have agreed terms with another club but no fees have been agreed. Juve are potentially still in this hunt.
July 4, 2009 at 16:37
OGC, gilberto himself says melo’s power is what we are missing
think he would know more than us
July 4, 2009 at 16:37
Yeh, Id rather we used diaby for a swap deal. Cos if we do sign melo, that’s going to be 6 CMs fighting for 2 or 3 spots. That means we’re going to see a lot more of diaby the left winger..
July 4, 2009 at 16:38
@The Fabster:
So you’re alright as long as we buy players even if that means they are unproven and we’re losing established players? To me that doesn’t seem like improvement.
July 4, 2009 at 16:38
Stu the only differances between Melo and Cana is that Cana might be a slightly better tackler but Melo is a much better passer of the ball and scores the odd goal too. My question about Cana is, If he’s that good then why have Marseilles bought M’Bia as his replacement. Obviously they’re not pushed about losing Cana and replacing him with M’Bia.
July 4, 2009 at 16:38
Marko, Denilsong, Fabregas, Ramsey, Diaby. Yeah your right, thats 5. But all of them will be getting games and there are reserves that will be playing in the CC.
Cesc and Melo (if he is to sign) in the prem and CL.
They Denilsong and Ramsey as back up. Wenger will want to play Diaby there too. And the kids in the reserves too. He seems to want Nasri in there too. I think we should sell at least 1 or 2 of them. Diaby and half of Denilsong. (unless Song is moved to defence).
July 4, 2009 at 16:38
Did you use google translate?!?!?!
Damn.. i don’t understand a thing??
Can anybody please explain me in english, danish, german, bosnian, serbian og croatian!??!
July 4, 2009 at 16:38
ehh lads m goin 2 emirates cup ryt…i was wonderin what is the best day to see all the good playas…saturday or sunday
July 4, 2009 at 16:38
or*
July 4, 2009 at 16:40
Faceman – yeh when he was playing RB. As I said, he seemed to turn a corner this season playing RM. Worth exploring imo, as we dont have any better pacey dribblers
July 4, 2009 at 16:41
he has ferk all football intelligence, a big miss when you play wengerball
he is a powerful player who can bulldoze through with the ball but he cannot do much after that.
July 4, 2009 at 16:41
Fabster, thats now a perfect summer. The perfect summer would have Silvestre and Diaby being sold too. And Ade of course.
July 4, 2009 at 16:41
Depending on if Nordveit’s loan gets extended or not there is your right back cover. He is a natural center back but has played a lot on the right while on loan. If injuries became an issue he would certainly be worth a punt on the right.
July 4, 2009 at 16:42
OGC the truth is we don’t need an enforcer we just needed to buy a decent defender, that’s what was obvious from last season not that we needed a DM. Flamini wasn’t an enforcer he was a player who had unbelievable stamina and was great at harryier of players.
July 4, 2009 at 16:42
Is this a booze addled joke?
July 4, 2009 at 16:42
evenin All ..
if this deal comes trough we’re all set…call it the missing link…we will rock and roll all season…:) mark my words…
tom
July 4, 2009 at 16:42
It is this line
“In case the footballer has already reached an agreement with any club, the release clause fixed with the player himself is 25 million euros. We would not contemplate any exchange, unless it is to the liking of Fiorentina.
Makes me think there is movement with Juve, but it also makes me think that they dont want to sell him to Juve.
July 4, 2009 at 16:42
Be SURPRISED if this happened, word is that the player may favour staying in Italy & Juve are interested but wont pay the 25m euro release . This could be nothing more than just be a way of forcing their hand to up the fee so the player can join them. Or pehaps encourage a bidding war, either way i am not convinced. Strange statement for the club to make if they were really serious about doing business with us as its well known we like to do things quietly.
July 4, 2009 at 16:42
Oh yeah Bendy. Completely forgot about Nordveits loan deal. He would be decent is his performances out there are anything to go on.
July 4, 2009 at 16:43
Ofcourse Gilberto is gonna say that, him being a proper fucking gentleman and all.
July 4, 2009 at 16:43
can anyone think of a utility player that we can buy
July 4, 2009 at 16:43
I must say, an apology is owed to Mike… we all mocked his mate from Italy!
Pat, they definitely wouldn’t want to strengthen a rival.
I just wonder if the Melo signing means someone other than Eboue leaving?
July 4, 2009 at 16:44
I disagree, one-on-one hes absolutely brilliant, offensively and defensively we dont have anyone better. You’re right he does make poor decisions, but after he turned that corner, he started making the right ones more often. He’s learning that role, but the improvement he showed last year is worth exploring cos he can be a real asset to us
July 4, 2009 at 16:44
excactly paththegooner sounds to me like they want eboue…and hesitates to sell to a serie a club…
tom
July 4, 2009 at 16:44
YES MOTHERFUKKERS!!!! Fellow Grovers,if the MELO transfer comes through I,like most of u will run around naked like a madman!i hope it does happen,cos we will make the rest tremble.imo we should get a RM & maybe flog Ade to the sheikhs at ManCity for £30m – laughing! I hope this gets sorted asap.
July 4, 2009 at 16:45
Nishanth… he really wont be a loss.
He was shite out wide right… and he was average at right back.
We’ll cope without him.
I can’t believe people are even worried about him leaving… we are signing a player of real quality and ditching a player who has rarely performed.
Lets get some perspective here people!
July 4, 2009 at 16:45
Where’s Geoff, has he fainted???
July 4, 2009 at 16:45
Listen what signing Melo is doing is bringing a much needed presence in the middle of the park for us. Next season we’ll still need to defend from the front and at least with Melo (6ft?) and Vermaelen (a good leap?) we would have two players capable of attacking high balls.
July 4, 2009 at 16:45
It just means that the release clause is at 25M
which means that if he wants to sign for a club, then Fiorentina can not, refuse an offer of that amount.
They then go on to say, that the only club who have reached anywhere near a figure which they find acceptable, is Arsenal.
Juve might get him, but they will need to offer more than us
July 4, 2009 at 16:45
The utility player we’ve been linked with often is dabo from st ettienne
July 4, 2009 at 16:46
DDM, I am with him now… he’s making a cup of tea telling me how outraged he is that Ken Livingstone wants to give everyone free fire alarms.
July 4, 2009 at 16:46
Davi, learning a new role is one thing but he has played there for 2+ seasons and has dont fuck all there. About 5 assists and 3 goals. Amazing right.
July 4, 2009 at 16:47
Dabo is a great defensive utility player who would be available cheaply.
July 4, 2009 at 16:48
How can ppl be so excited about melo? Not many people have seen him this season, and in the confederations cup he was average.
I think he would do a good job for us, but hes nothing spectacular. I dont think we *need* him. Certainly not for £15m+
July 4, 2009 at 16:48
Pedro i am not upset about the fact that he is leaving.I think he is a player who can fetch us a some 6-7 million.I just think the amount indicated is too high.I doubt arsene will spend that much
July 4, 2009 at 16:48
Davi… what is the point in being great one on one if your delivery is shite?
He is 25… he should be doing it now. We need to stop talking about how great our shite players are…
Senderos… poor
Eboue… poor
Silvestre… poor
Players like that kill the upstarts… not players like Melo who encourage and improve them.
Let us rejoice at the possibility of Melo coming… and forget what might happen if the mighty Sags gets injured!
July 4, 2009 at 16:49
Melo Melo Melo Melo
July 4, 2009 at 16:49
mike is king!!!!!
July 4, 2009 at 16:49
Pedro, calling Silvestre poor is a little generous. He is useless at his very best.
July 4, 2009 at 16:49
Davi. I think people are excited because he’s an experienced player who is good enough to get in the Brazil side.
We have been lacking experience in Central Mid, now we might be getting some
July 4, 2009 at 16:50
Davi, he’s pushed Fiorentina into the top 4 in Italy… and he is a Brazilian centre mid. He has a nasty streak and plenty in world football rate him.
He is a step in the right direction.
Gilberto wasn’t an exciting signing from a glamour point of view… but no one can argue with the job he did. Melo is the same for me… a signing of quality which proves our intent.
Bravo Arsene.
July 4, 2009 at 16:51
Nishanth, It doesn’t indicate an amount… That is the figure for his release clause
July 4, 2009 at 16:51
Honest Bill
i have a somewhat different view mate,,,,sounds to me like Melo want an Arsenal transfer and he’s not willing to go to juve…so in my humble opinion he is set on joining Arsenal if any.,…might Gilberto have done the difference..?? i think so…
not needed to diss a true Arsenal player like eboue hinest sincer and the man has a heart…
tom
July 4, 2009 at 16:51
Pedro God bless the Q&A
July 4, 2009 at 16:52
well now some italian paper is claiming that melo has signed for juve for 21 million+Marco Marchionni
July 4, 2009 at 16:52
shame the Q&A was not around when he was winning us doubles
July 4, 2009 at 16:52
Amen to that Franchise!
July 4, 2009 at 16:54
Tomstoned, maybe he does wanna come here, but all i’m saying is, that Fiorentina are saying that ours is the only offer they’re considering
July 4, 2009 at 16:54
I honestly think that if we brought in Melo on top of Vermaelen and sold Silvest and Ade and replaced them with Chamakh and either Sahko, Tasci or Dabo then that would be a perfect summer and our squad could challenge on all fronts next season. I’d defo put some money on Arsenal for the league. Here’s also hoping we keep the injuries to a minimum next season.
July 4, 2009 at 16:54
Fiorentina: No Melo deal yet
Fiorentina have denied reports Felipe Melo has signed for Juventus, claiming Arsenal are the only club to have made an offer for the midfielder.
Media reports in Italy suggested the Brazilian, who has a 25m euro release clause, had agreed a deal with Juve.
But a statement on Fiorentina’s website read: “Arsenal are the only club to have come close to the sum established by the release clause.”
July 4, 2009 at 16:55
Yes, but there were Clear improvements this year….
people develop at different rates. Not everyone is at their best by 25..
If we’d let him go last year, Id have been disappointed, but fair enough he’d shown nothing at RM and he’d lost his place at RB. But now hes actually shown something nobody wants him.
I think you’ll find his delivery is better than walcott actually, although he is improving as well.
Being good 1-on-1 is useful to us. We play against tight defences often, and being able to take a couple of them out the game means teammates can lose their markers more easily.
To be fair, that’s why eboue often frustrates. Because he often does the hard work in beating a player or two and moving into space, and then he messes up an easy pass. these easy passes dont often exist in arsenal matches. Having players to beat opposition like this is extremely useful.
The benefits of being good at one-on-ones defensively are more obvious, but i’l say hes as good as anyone in our squad in that dept
July 4, 2009 at 16:55
Cant believe someone want that useles,diving cunt eboue.miracles stil happen
July 4, 2009 at 16:56
gunnergunnergunner i would go sunday against rangers. Then you get to see us lift the trophy. Hopefully
July 4, 2009 at 16:56
I’d say somewhere between 15 million and Eboue wouldn’t be bad business.
July 4, 2009 at 16:56
I reckon he will sign for us today or tomorrow and it will be announced on Arse.com on MON….
July 4, 2009 at 16:56
if it were Faceman maybe we would have defended a title at least once
Pedro i was beginning to seriously question wenger’s judgement. did he realy rate denilSong that highly or was it as a result that he gambled to sign a proper DM on the last dayof the window last summer?
if he signs Melo or any other quality exp DM then i would for definite know that it was no 2
July 4, 2009 at 16:59
I dont think u can claim melo has pushed fiorentina into the top 4, theyve got some brilliant players besides him.
Gilberto had just won the world cup as a key player, the main DM in the cup winning side. I was pretty excited when we signed him.
Im happy to be wrong but melo didnt deliver for me when I saw him. What everyone is looking for is an authoritative DM. And while he wont back down from challenges he didnt exactly look like he wanted the ball at all times. Gilberto looked the authoritative player to me
July 4, 2009 at 16:59
fuck off Bergy….ure an excample of the poorest fan there is…what have eboue done…he was a very good right back but was stripped of that position…did he complain…no he played on ..in my eyes thats respect..ure a disgrace Bergy..
tom
July 4, 2009 at 17:00
Just read on Goal.com that Barca are ready to bid for “unsettled” Arsenal star Andrey Arshavin. What a joke. How many times to they keep trying the same bloody tricks. He’s happy here.
July 4, 2009 at 17:00
Felipe Melo’s agent has denied advanced negotiations with Juventus, leaving the door wide open for Arsenal to close the deal with Fiorentina.
There were reports that the Brazilian had reached an agreement with Juve, but the Viola reacted angrily by releasing an official statement on their website.
It noted that Arsenal were the “only club” to make an offer anywhere near the £21m buy-out clause and that any other sides would have to pay the full sum to take him.
“There are no negotiations between us and other clubs for Felipe Melo,” declared agent Jose Rodriguez Baster.
“If a side is interested in the player, then first they must present an offer to Fiorentina. We will not negotiate with anyone until they have reached an agreement with the Viola.”
It is believed that director of sport Pantaleo Corvino issued the damning statement in order to silence talk of a deal with Juventus.
Meanwhile, they have asked Arsenal for cash plus full-back Emmanuel Eboue in order to hand Melo over to the Emirates club.
“There is a lot of talk about Felipe now because as well as playing an excellent season, he got himself noticed in the Confederations Cup,” added agent Baster.
“Having said that, we are not in talks, nor have we been negotiating, with anyone.”
July 4, 2009 at 17:01
At least now we all know that Wenger isnt hapy with the squad. So if he says anything to the contrary then we kow he is lying to protect his shite players.
Im glad he isnt happy, it proves that he isnt insane after all.
Vermaelen and Melo in would be good, If we can just get rid of the shite and get in at least 1 more quality, hardworking player then i would defo but a few bets on for next seasons trophies,
July 4, 2009 at 17:04
what did you all expect wenger to say last summer?
i missed out on inler and alonso.. fuck
i am left with song and dewnilson who are both wank?
July 4, 2009 at 17:05
im sorry for that outburst Pedro…but i want sit still and see that some jerk is attacking one of the most loyal players we got…to have opinions is ok…but to jump at a player who has proven his loyalty to Our Beloved Arsenal..is well…
tom
July 4, 2009 at 17:06
If it was for Senderos / Diaby / Silvestre, I won’t be complaining at all but Eboue is as useful and good a utility player can be. Even last season we had a good first 11 but what prevented us from winning anything was decent backup.
July 4, 2009 at 17:07
Tom, how has Eboue proven his loyalty to us? I dont remember saying he didnt want to leave after someone bids for him.
July 4, 2009 at 17:08
Eboue can be useful, but we have better players in the positions he can play, whereas we have nobody better than Melo in his position, So it would be good business
July 4, 2009 at 17:08
well Faceman when u continuosly back shit ppl would eiher think u r shit urself r that u r loosing it
July 4, 2009 at 17:10
If the Melo deal does go thru then we should be able to see a midfield capable of bossing any other team in the Prem altho I still would like a right winger so Melo and Hazard would cheer that chip off me shoulder because effectively we would then have a fighting chance of winning without being bullied off the pitch!
July 4, 2009 at 17:10
the perfect summer transfer action, based on this transfer going through:
OUT:
senderos – 6 mil
silvestre – can fuck off for free for all i care
diaby – 5-8 mil (never the same after that sunderland cunt did his ankle in)
adebayor – 15-25 mil
eboue – exchange
IN:
melo
chamakh (the respected french journalist described him as the best headerer of the ball in the french league, if not europe!)
then players like vela, djourou and ramsey will have a more prominent role next year to make up for the selling of other regulars.
July 4, 2009 at 17:11
If you could see me,i am dancing a little jig !!!! Now we only need the self inflated king size ego that is Adebayor to leave and it will be a decent pre season.
July 4, 2009 at 17:12
Please everyone, stop dancing jigs … We have not signed him yet
July 4, 2009 at 17:12
This deal excites me.
July 4, 2009 at 17:12
tomystoned, Eboue has also disgraced the shirt on several occasions….
July 4, 2009 at 17:13
Stu mate ..loyalty is proven in my eyes to just get down and do what ure paid to do…play at the best of ure ability,,,which eboue does week out week in…if u need assholes ….flamini..ade..hleb..gallas …f.ex…the worst ever in Arsenal history must be flamini not only did we rescue him as a player…fuck we nursed him…and then to pack his bags…that shit…im actually puking whenever i hear his name…
tom
July 4, 2009 at 17:13
I personally think Eboue is a decent guy and is well loved at the club by all the players but if it gets us Melo and if he’s open to it then happy days. I saying that I think we have to be careful cause I’m sure Wenger would prefer to keep Eboue and use Senderos in the deal because he knows Eboue is versatile and well liked by everyone. Although it is clear that Gazadis and Wenger aren’t siting around and doing nothing it is also clear that this transfer is quite away from being complete.
July 4, 2009 at 17:13
Faceman, I’d expect a coach with the biggest scouting network in the world to have more than two options on his replacement list.
July 4, 2009 at 17:14
pedro – i could not give a fuck what did or did not go on last summer
lets get the fuck behind our club, again.
July 4, 2009 at 17:15
Eboue is versatile but he is replacement in every position rather than a starter, we got an excellent bank of youth players who can fill in as well as toure and if need gallas. Do the deal.
July 4, 2009 at 17:15
Tom, Flamini was hardly a back stabber… we didn’t rescue him, we pinched him from under the noses of Marseille.
Then we didn’t offer him a new contract the summer before he exploded… tried to flog him to Birmingham…
So when Milan came in for him… the club of his dreams, can we really blame him for upping sticks?
July 4, 2009 at 17:15
sol – theres no need to be rude about silvestre.
Hes never done us wrong. Hes definitely lost something from his man utd days, but its not his fault he got the injuries.
He actually had a decent game at CB for us against Man Utd, and I cant remember him making too many mistakes this year. Nothing major anyway.
I think we should sell him on, but theres no need to be disrespectful
July 4, 2009 at 17:15
Why sign the end of your posts with Tom. We already know it’s you Tom.
Marko
July 4, 2009 at 17:16
Faceman, I’ll certainly be doing that this year!
This is how summers are supposed to roll.
I am chuffed to bits that Wenger has responded to our dour season.
Arshavin, Vermaelen and Melo.
Those are some damn good signings.
This could be a great year… especially the way things are going down at the other clubs.
July 4, 2009 at 17:17
Shep, we don’t abuse fellow Grovers.
July 4, 2009 at 17:18
100% my sentiments and feelings, pedro
look at the other top clubs squads.. chelski too old over the hill… pool reliant on 2 players, utd plain crap without rooney.
we have arshavin,cesc, rvp, rosicky, melo, theo et al
BRING IT ON
July 4, 2009 at 17:18
Other clubs are sinking we’re swimming.
July 4, 2009 at 17:18
… and to answer you question.
We can afford those players because we earn a shed load and are a well run business.
July 4, 2009 at 17:19
World class Arsenal first team, been a while since we been described as that! Although I did like the young and talented moniker.
July 4, 2009 at 17:19
ure twisting it a little Pedro..
he was given a fair chance to play for the best club in the world…negotiations about renewing his contract was undergoing..that he dreamt of Milan..well that shows loyalty…in my eyes he will always be a moneygrabbin.sucker…and this season proved it…he will never succeed outside Our Beloved Arsenal..
tom
July 4, 2009 at 17:19
Perfect summer (not based on whats going through)
Stekelenburg (i like him) 6m
8m
7m?
Vermaelen 10m
Roland Juhasz
Melo (i suppose) 14m plus Eboue
Igor Denisov
TOTAL: 45
OUT:
Almunia (i guess i just dont love him) 4-5m?
Senderos 6m
Silvestre (leave in the desert somewhere)
Eboue (part exchange)
Diaby 8m
Ade 18m
TOTAL 36M
That would be a great summer imo. Not a profit but so fucking what!
July 4, 2009 at 17:20
Ok, but don’t be so quick to write off our rivals. They still have a few players who can do the business. I think we can win it, but don’t go thinking we’re gonna walk it, the players will have to give it everything they have
July 4, 2009 at 17:20
Faceman, if this signing comes off… I think we’ve got what we need.
Wenger understands the mistakes he made last year, Gazidis understands you can’t be too prudent if you want to succeed and Arsenal look on the up.
Signing top players not only boosts fan and player morale, it also boosts the kids coming through. Learning from top players with a winning attitude can only breed winning players.
Exciting times!
July 4, 2009 at 17:20
Marko..
bad habit i guess….sorry
July 4, 2009 at 17:21
10/1 that is what the bookies price us at
2/1 by october
July 4, 2009 at 17:21
yeah same here, eboue frustrates but is also a good utility player. top teams need good utility players. he has also improved a lot since he got booed off the pitch vs wigan. he always had the ability but it all seemed liek ajoke to him. hes much more focussed now and deserves another season. also when he comes on in tight games he’s our most direct player who actually runs at defences, pisses me off so much to see our players scared to do that
July 4, 2009 at 17:21
Yep re-shuffle the pack… as long as every new signing is an ace.. the latest proposals look very promising!
July 4, 2009 at 17:22
pedro…
who’s the one lacking perspective re eboue?
maybe you…
you admitted some months ago it was personal…so surely that disqualifies your professional assessment?
July 4, 2009 at 17:22
Tom, I’m not twisting anything… contract negotiations only started after he began to perform in the middle of the park.
He wanted a contract in the summer… we tried to flog him to Birmingham.
I didn’t like the fact he left, but I’d never hate him for the decision he made.
July 4, 2009 at 17:23
Nah man Eboue for Melo, I cant believe theres even a discussion.
July 4, 2009 at 17:24
We got Flamini free because he left Marseille on a free. We also lost him on a free. That was our fault for not renewing his contract.
July 4, 2009 at 17:25
Blazon… I can’t stand him personally, or as a player.
Getting upset about a utility player leaving us is pointless.
The kids should be filling in as utility players… there is no way Eboue should be playing ahead of Rambo in right midfield this year… no way.
He is an average player because he lacked focus. He dived, cheated and rarely performed for us. 25 years old and no one knows his best position… it’s in his interest to got to a club where he’ll get first team action.
Win win for everyone.
July 4, 2009 at 17:25
Utility players are easy to come by, I’m sure we can get another one, but Melo means we challenge now rather than in a few years with Denilson who is still good and this a chance for him to learn if this deal comes off.
July 4, 2009 at 17:25
Pedro mate we disagree…
i find it quite ok to prove youre worth before gettin a substantial pay rise…wouldnt every contract be better off if players had to prove themselves instead of just gettin a shitload of money…
flamini as a player is more or less finished..and had Gattusso been fit all year he wouldnt have played one single game..
July 4, 2009 at 17:25
hahah leave silvestre in the desert somewhere! i aint laughed that hard in a while lol! im not sayin anything about him personally, its just that he is crap. i laughed at the statistic published on the arsenal website saying his tackle completion was 100%. the tackles he attempted he was successful yeah, but his positioning was so poor on so many occasions that he was never in a position to make tackles most of the time when he should have been better placed. his positioning left gaping holes in our defence numerous times. simple as.
July 4, 2009 at 17:26
Stu, I don’t think he was nabbed on a free… I think we slipped in and took him on that dodgy Euro rule… we paid out comp I think?
July 4, 2009 at 17:26
The arrival of Melo would be great on all accounts! Very similar to the gilberto silva signing in 2002. We signed gilberto when he was 25 after a series of strong performances in the world cup and from the looks of things Melo looks a similar talent (if not better).
Also, the deal would spell the end of Eboooooooue, who, despite supposedly being a popular figure amongst his team mates is still shit and would also allow the likes of Kerrea Gilbert or Gavin Hoyte to stake their claims respectively as understudies to Bak.
Things looking up for us tbh. No significant departures and I don’t think the spending will stop with Melo. Maybe one more defender who can cover RB and CB (M. Richards) and arsenal are ready to dominate on all fronts once again!!!
July 4, 2009 at 17:27
I thought Denisov was a midfielder? Thats the guy from CSKA right. Yeah he’s the new Arshavin. But we still have the old one what kind of a message is that sending. I think:
In:
Vermaelen- 10mill
Melo- 15mill plus Eboue
Chamakh- 8mill
Zapata- 12mill or
Dabo- 8mill
Hazard- 8mill (purely cause he’s the next big star and next season he’ll cost treble)
Out:
Ade- 18-25mill
Senderos- 5-8mill
Gallas or Toure but only if Zapata is to come.
Whats likely is Vermaelen folowed by hopfully Melo and then Chamakh if Ade is given the olde heave ho
July 4, 2009 at 17:27
Pedro; No, he wanted to go to Birmigham and was gonna buy out his last year of his contract…. Well, thats how I understood it to be…
Can we stop discussin Flamini please?
July 4, 2009 at 17:29
its the same thing Mangoon
they arent good enough (yet) for a club of our stature
there is no crime there
improving the squad by signing quality players would ensure that the less quality players feature less
denilson played 51 games last season
WTF was that all about?
July 4, 2009 at 17:29
Tom , thats not the point. The club allowed his contract run down even tho he played everywhere without comlaint.
If everyone had to prove themselves before being offered new contracts then why does Theo, Eboue, Song etc etc get new contracts every summer. They dont prove themselves. Ade scored some goals, but won us nothing and got his wages more than doubled. Theo rarely does much for us, granted the ability s there, but he still doesnt deserve half of the reported 60k a week,
At least Flamini was doing well for the team. Dont say he didnt deserve a contract and that the others do because thats simply not true.
July 4, 2009 at 17:30
It’s not pathetic scapegoating either. If Wenger is spending £10million+ on a defensive midfielder, it’s addressing a problem.
July 4, 2009 at 17:30
Flamini who has a law degree by the way was stolen from Marseille on free and compensation paid by us and didnt get the opportunities or was recognised as he should have been like Cesc who signed around the same time. It was a move of both awe for Milan and anger for the way he had been treated as to why he left. He knew his position and he knew he held all the cards in his last year and sorted himself, he always he’d be second fiddle to cesc. Fair play to him. We were a bit shabby in the way we handled that.
July 4, 2009 at 17:30
Franchy;
Yeah, true, havinjhg em as 1st choiuce was the real issue for me, having a quality, experienced DM can only benefit eveyone, IMO!
But, dont listen to me, Ive got a killer hangover!
July 4, 2009 at 17:31
And now Melo’s agent is denying that the deal will happen!!
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_5415049,00.html
July 4, 2009 at 17:31
Flam never wanted to got to birmingham MG
we wanted to sell him to Birm but he refused to move and play out his last year
July 4, 2009 at 17:31
he always knew*
July 4, 2009 at 17:32
Pedro;
Nope, its improving the squad fella… And there has been scapegoating goin on, as per… WE havent even signed Melo anyways…
July 4, 2009 at 17:33
… and Mangoonian, the point of the convo about Flamini is that I don’t believe Arsenal fans hate him on the level we hate Cashley.
He left… which is shite, but I can understand.
Anyway, this is a day to rejoice!
We’re signing another top player
PTL \ 0 /
July 4, 2009 at 17:33
Pedro’s right on Flamini. He was classed as a free but Marseilles went to some tribunal for some kind of fee something to do with his age. About Flamini I don’t really begrudge him his move I just don’t like the fact that for months he was telling Wenger (Wenger said this) that he was going to sign only to then go and negotiate with Juve and then sign for Milan cause they offererd him more than Juve.
July 4, 2009 at 17:33
redbear the agent is saying he clubs have not agreed a deal yet but are in negotiations
only after this can he discuss with the club on personal terms
viola website didnt claim a deal was agreed yet
July 4, 2009 at 17:33
Franchy;
Not true! WEnger persuaded him to stay, he WANTED to go… And was prepared to buy out his last year…
But feel free to change the facts to suit your antipathy towrda WEnger/the board/Doris the Tea Lady…
July 4, 2009 at 17:34
Mangoonian, it’s improving the first 11.
Wenger isn’t splashing out that much to split the games with Denilson.
July 4, 2009 at 17:34
Stu…
Flamini got every chance to stay at the club,he is and always will be a a…ole
and just see what happens with that s….r he’s not gettin better or more playing time…Milan what a joke..he is not a regurlar player and will never be..i call that just fair..
July 4, 2009 at 17:35
Marko, Denisov is a CM at Zenit. Maybe you are thinking of Zhirkov?
July 4, 2009 at 17:36
Pedro;
Fair ebough, its just the fact that Flamini is long gone and he fucked us off, which was his choice, and fair play to him, we got him under a cloud and he left under one, we cant really complain… He werent at the cdlub long enough or did enough to warrant anything like the amount of chatter theres been about him, IMO…
July 4, 2009 at 17:36
THIS IS A PROPER ITALIAN TRANSLATION OF WHAT THE ANNOUNCEMENT MEANS:
“The director of sport [Pantaleo Corvino] points out that Arsenal FC are the only club who came close to the buy-out clause figure,” read the statement.
“Fiorentina have in turn proposed to Arsenal that they can reduce the cash sum by introducing right-back Eboue into the deal.”
“If the player has already reached an agreement of his own with any other club, the buy-out clause is set at £21m with no other players involved in the exchange unless they are wanted by ACF Fiorentina.”
Eboue said this earlier in the summer about leaving:
“It would be hard but I think it would be harder to experience another season like this one,”
“In any case, if I leave Arsenal it would be for another league because it is out of the question that I develop elsewhere in England.”
July 4, 2009 at 17:36
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11661_3422924,00.html
I thought we tried to sell him.
July 4, 2009 at 17:36
Chamakh is on a par with Bendtner in terms of heading. Otherwise, Nik’s a better player.
July 4, 2009 at 17:37
Really tom.didnt eboue say he didnt play enough games and might leave.how many people at the emirates didnt boo him off.I just dont like his constant diving,and moaning.you would rather keep a back up player like him than get some quality in?the problem with arsenal,is we have 2 few quality starters.and way 2 many squad players starting
July 4, 2009 at 17:37
Enough about Denilson please. I agree he shouldn’t be a starter but he’s a very good squad player. And everyone needs a few of them right?
July 4, 2009 at 17:38
Hmm early days.. if by this time next week we have secured 1 or 2 quality additions… then maybe the balance will be in place for a season worth lookin ahead to us challenging where we should always be!
July 4, 2009 at 17:38
Redbearer, that simply means that terms have not been agreed wit Fiorentina, Only in that eventuality would Arsenal be in talks with Melo himself
July 4, 2009 at 17:39
And we have quality cover IF we sign Melo, he wont play every game… Thats what we need, a squad where players can come in at every position. Denilson and Song are good enough to play against most teams NOW, they may be good enough to play against EVERY team, soon… it is all good, why you keep trying to make out its a slight on DEnilson or Song is baffling to me???
July 4, 2009 at 17:39
Anyway… enough about the old.
More about the potential new…
Would everyone be satisfied with things as they are now?
July 4, 2009 at 17:39
imagine we don’t actually buy him after all this furore…..
July 4, 2009 at 17:39
Well…Steve Bruce says Bendtner is one of the best headerers of a ball he has ever seen. Thats saying someting as Bruce wasnt afraid of putting his head where it hurts. (see his face as proof of that).
July 4, 2009 at 17:40
Yeah I know Stu. I was just replying to someone’s list which had them selling Ade and replacing him with Denisov. Either way I’d prefer we signed Eden Hazard cause this kids gonna be the dogs bollox in like 2 seasons time.
July 4, 2009 at 17:41
yea i would…wouldnt mind another defender ocming in if we amnage to flog toure for arab gold…
July 4, 2009 at 17:41
I am definitely no fan of Eboue, and will not be sad to see him go. However, i remember being extremely impressed and excited when he broke into the first team as an attacking Right Back, the blame for my dissatisfaction with him lays firmly at Wenger’s door, with his constant chopping and changing of his role within the team, he basically fucked up a perfectly good Right Back……
July 4, 2009 at 17:42
Mangoonian, I think you’ll be the only one in world football who thinks that the signing of a £21mill Brazilian international isn’t a slight on Song and Denilson.
Of course he wont play every game… there are the ones he’ll be injured for, the carling cup and the FA Cup.
July 4, 2009 at 17:42
This simply means that RvP has signed his contract about this, He will that arsenal buy and this is what happens. If you bring this news on the officieel site then there must be an agreement. And our right back will be Dabo.
July 4, 2009 at 17:42
If we were to keep the squad we got and added Vermaelen and Melo then yes I’d be happy. It’d be a good summer IMO. Our rivals are losing players and struggling to bring in real quality while we bring in 2 experienced players. Happy Days.
July 4, 2009 at 17:43
Just read he follwng :
Fiorentina have revealed they are willing to negotiate the sale of Felipe Melo to Arsenal – with Emmanuel Eboue involved in a potential swap deal.
Brazil international Melo had been strongly linked with the Gunners only to put pen to paper on a contract extension at the Viola on June 30.
A buy-out clause, said to be €25million (£21.4m), has been included in Melo’s new deal and recent reports have suggested Juventus could match that fee.
However, Fiorentina have claimed Arsenal remain the only side to have made an offer that comes close to activating the midfielder’s sale clause.
A statement on the club’s official website read: “Fiorentina sporting director Pantaleo Corvino, in denying the transfer rumours of the past few hours, which sees Felipe Melo definitely at other clubs and reporting potential meetings to finalise the transfer of the player, underlines the following:
“In case the footballer has already reached an agreement with any club, the release clause fixed with the player himself is €25million. We would not contemplate any exchange, unless it is to the liking of Fiorentina.
“Arsenal is the only club to have come close to the sum established by the release clause.
“Fiorentina in turn proposed to the aforementioned club a reduction in the amount set by the release clause by including right-back (Emmanuel) Eboue in the deal.”
Eboue, who signed for the Gunners from Beveren in 2005, has recently grown unsettled at Emirates Stadium and has not ruled out an exit
July 4, 2009 at 17:43
redbearer. The reason why his agent has said what he has said is that we are dealing directly with the club first. as he stated in his previous statement.
Flamini was on peanuts and we failed to offer him a new contract until it was too late.
July 4, 2009 at 17:43
Pedro – No! because i want to see the back of TT and possibly have that Hazard chappie come in, looks very promising indeed, just the type of player we don’t even if everyone is suddenly fit and available, a tricky out and out winger….
July 4, 2009 at 17:44
right dennisdamenace thx mate i started to wonder if nobody else remembered,,,u saved my day cheers
July 4, 2009 at 17:45
Nah Marko. I wasnt suggesting replacing Ade with Denisov. Ade doesnt necessarily need replacing. We have enough forwards as it is.
July 4, 2009 at 17:46
Bergy
Thats cos our starters are always injured.
Jeez,I get sick of people attacking eboue’s attitude. To me hes on the same wavelength as Rvp. He gets pissd off when we get kicked by the opposition, and he tries to do something about it. Be it through acting aggressively or going up to the ref. The ref stuff has to stop, i agree but srsly calm down. Most of our players dont react at all when we’re getting kicked in a match. They go into their shells. Id much rather we kicked up a fuss than did that.
It’s ridiculous to use that diving argument against him as he has stopped diving to a large degree, and we all know other arsenal players have dived but people dont attack them because they were great players (pires, henry etc)- well how fucking principled that is!
July 4, 2009 at 17:47
bendtner is an excellent headerer of the ball..wonderful leap..still remember the one he scored against the spuds last year..first touch of the ball- legend…
July 4, 2009 at 17:47
Melo is a fantastic player.
July 4, 2009 at 17:47
hello hello hello..melo melo melo!
July 4, 2009 at 17:48
Sorry, just scrolled up and see you already knew!
July 4, 2009 at 17:48
yep Rohan I agree on Nick..and the won he scored against the Chavs at the grove..
July 4, 2009 at 17:49
i can live with eboue without his antics but with them he can fuck off
July 4, 2009 at 17:49
Oh god no Stu. Bendtner isn’t ready yet. He had a great second half to the season but he’s not quite developed the finishing side of his game, he is very promising though. I mean if we could guarantee Eduardo fit for most of the season then no we don’t need to replace Ade cause I’ve always said Eduardo is a natural finisher and if fit could get 25-30 goals a season in all competitions. Just like RVP who was fit for most of last season and scored 20 goals.
July 4, 2009 at 17:50
Xeeez that was an incredible leap wasn’t it?
July 4, 2009 at 17:52
July 4, 2009 at 17:52
I wish RVP would do some of that trickery that he used to. Because at the moment he is a bit too predictable. Any defender who’s ever seen him play, knows what’s coming.
July 4, 2009 at 17:52
i think an rvp eduardo partnership up front with nikkiB/vela as the alternative could work wonders..
all of this without even considering the russian wonderkid…
July 4, 2009 at 17:53
I wasnt suggesting that as such Marko. We have Vela aswell and imo IF we play 4-4-2 then Arshavin can always play off the front man. Be tit Eduardo VP or Vela. Bendtner isnt the only option, although a decent one.
July 4, 2009 at 17:54
Yeah Bill. VP gets the ball and more often than not he is looking to get the ball onto his left foot to have a shot.
July 4, 2009 at 17:56
Exactly Stu. Remember when defenders didn’t know which way he would go?
July 4, 2009 at 17:58
Remember when VP actually tricked defenders. Now he either looks to shoot or just play a nothing pass. His goals at the beginning of his career were brilliant. The blackburn one comes to mind.
July 4, 2009 at 17:58
What ever happened to that link with that russian Progray-something or other. Guess that was bull. Looking at Hazard he looks a cross between Theo and Nasri.
July 4, 2009 at 17:59
rvp has sacrificed himself for the team.. nothing wrong in that…
July 4, 2009 at 18:00
So now we want to buy a promising 17yo, we don’t have 1st right to every one there is.
July 4, 2009 at 18:00
So now the player’s agent is denying any deal :S
Who to believe hey!
July 4, 2009 at 18:00
Choy, he doesn’t need to do that. He could just play the way he used to and perplex defenders, he would score lots more if he did that
July 4, 2009 at 18:01
ALl the trickery he did went out with the Injuries he has had….its just like Ronaldo stopped doing most of his trickery as well…because he’d rather beat you for pace and score goals….
July 4, 2009 at 18:01
Carlos, he hasn’t said that
July 4, 2009 at 18:01
a lot of us have underestimated rvp’s importance to us alst season imo he singlehandedly carried the team during that period..
if arshavin is the reason we won the race for 4th place then rvp is the reason we were even in that race…
during the winter months he was simply outstanding..also you can’t argue with his haul of 20 goals and 13 assists..that he wasn’t even shortlisted for the premier leaqgues best (manc)players was a fucking disgrace (:P)
July 4, 2009 at 18:01
Rohan – I think you could be right.
Have eduardo and rvp ever played together in a front 2 tho? I dont think Ive ever seen it, but Id imagine it would be brilliant.
The only trouble with relying too heavily on rvp is in his injury record and the fact wenger doesnt like to play him more than 2 or 3 games in a row, which suggests some issues with either his stamina or something else to do with his body.
July 4, 2009 at 18:03
David Ronaldo’s trickery consisted of stepovers. RVP could actually beat defenders with his. All i’m saying is, when he gets the ball in the box, he is a bit predictable, defenders know he will cut inside 9 times out of 10. If he varied a bit more, he would penetrate more and score more goals
July 4, 2009 at 18:03
The team started playing consistently well before we signed arshavin. To be honest the only match I think he really saved us in was against liverpool. Other than that I think our form was good enough we would have beaten the other teams.
I think he helped us to do it more convincingly though
July 4, 2009 at 18:04
About time someone said that Rohan.
What’s that about who’s agent btw?
July 4, 2009 at 18:04
I’d rather use Senderos as part of the deal than Eboue. Who will cover if Sagna gets injured??
Toure?
July 4, 2009 at 18:04
Rohan – rvp also hit the woodwork at least 13 times. Imagine if half of those had gone in..
July 4, 2009 at 18:05
Davi, he also created more of a threat to opposition’s goal. they never know if he’s gonna have a shot, so he draws players to him, while with most of our lads, everyone knows that theres a little flick into the box coming, so they just pack their defence
July 4, 2009 at 18:05
I still don’t think we’ll beat Juve to Melo. We never do…
July 4, 2009 at 18:06
Jeeez Stu, now you are slating RvP???
Fuckin ell, give me strength….
July 4, 2009 at 18:06
RVP had an unlucky year with free kicks. Hit the woodwork 4 times, I recall.
July 4, 2009 at 18:07
The agent is saying that it’s not melo who’s asked for the transfer, he’s not denying anything just saying that any talks that have taken place are b/w the clubs and the player is not involved yet.
July 4, 2009 at 18:07
I know, we might be interested in signing a player, so erm, lets look at ways of putting a negative slant on it….
July 4, 2009 at 18:07
i think rvp scored a shit load with his right foot this season…
July 4, 2009 at 18:07
And as I’ve always said, Melo was still our #1 CDM target after he extended his contract.
Rosicky did the same thing
July 4, 2009 at 18:08
Sorry to be out of synch…got a late start and took a long time to read the back-log.
Have I been in the States so long that my sarcasm detector is way off, or were people serious earlier about Taure being a better RB than Sagna?
In that vein, I thought Eboue was much more effective when played as RB last season and looked very comfortable. In fact, playing Eboue instead of Taure as RB against Liverpool in the CL could have impacted that result.
That said, I like Taure and Eboue and hope we find a way to keep both. In our usual injury-ridden season they will have ample ops to contribute.
And, 21 million seems an awful lot to pay for Melo, who, by most accounts, was over-shadowed by our old friend Ghilberto in the Confed Cup.
I would take Flamini back.
I would rather have Cana/Zapata for the Melo money.
I think we’ve seen the best of Ade.
And Bendtner only looked so wasteful this past season because he has the positional sense to get into interesting situations. When he clicks better, I don’t think we’ll miss Ade too much.
There, mostly caught up.
Ray (oops)
July 4, 2009 at 18:08
Nobody was slating RVP, I was merely stating that he has lost the confidence he used to have, and is predictable in the box. If he can get back his confidence then he can turn that magic on again
July 4, 2009 at 18:08
Honest Bill:
http://www.skysports.com/story/0,19528,11670_5415049,00.html
He could decide to stay put amid all the speculation, after all, he has just signed a contract extension.
July 4, 2009 at 18:08
Pat – yeh djourou or toure id imagine
they’re good cover imo, but wouldnt offer much going forward.
I wouldnt mind losing eboue so much if it were in something closer to a straight swap for melo, OR if it were for someone a bit more proven. For me, diaby has to be the one to go. Fiorentina would be a great place for him to kick-start his career, and bringing in melo would leave us with too many CMs
July 4, 2009 at 18:09
yes Choy. Most were with his right foot
July 4, 2009 at 18:09
I think most Brazilian players that come to Arsenal are overrated, except Edu, Silvinhio and Gilberto.
July 4, 2009 at 18:11
Pat Eboue is not on Wenger’s team sheet as a defender, he’s on there as a midfielder, would you want to see that again?
I know I wouldn’t, I agree he is a great right back but then we have Gavin Hoyte as cover, if he’s not good enough then sell him, what’s the point in having all these youngsters if they aren’t good enough.
July 4, 2009 at 18:12
What’s with all the negativity, here’s something to cheer you guys up.
http://www.4thegame.in/gallery/?page=1&gallery=377
July 4, 2009 at 18:12
Carlos, that just means that Arsenal and Fiorentina have not come to an agreement yet. If they do, then, and only the, will Arsenal enter talks with Felipe Melo
July 4, 2009 at 18:12
Honest Bill – were you referring to rvp back there? – I would agree with that anyway, and say it’s still amazing that he always seems to find space when a ball is crossed in or on the edge of the box. He really is good at that
July 4, 2009 at 18:12
Ok so the negative slant was for MancGoonian, but I guess he didn’t bite.
July 4, 2009 at 18:13
we are like the gentleman’s club aren’t we..
first nicely talk to the club then the players. strictly following procedures!
July 4, 2009 at 18:14
Geoffl
Nice try tho!
July 4, 2009 at 18:14
Melo’s agent just states that his held no talks with any clubs over the player. And why would he? They have to agree a fee with his club first. Thats how it’s supposed to work even though Milan, Real and Chelsea among others have tap up players all the time in the press and go around clubs and go straight to their agents. Scum
July 4, 2009 at 18:14
Davi, I was actually referring to Andrey, but yes RVP is another one who is likely to have a shot
July 4, 2009 at 18:16
Geoff – Is Megan Fox Brazilian, or does she have a Brazilian?
July 4, 2009 at 18:16
Geoff, Justin was the RB. Gavin is a CB. I guess we’ll see Toure or Coquelin play RB is Sagna is injured. Maybe Le Coq will get into the team the same way Flamini did.
July 4, 2009 at 18:16
Choy if its any other way we can be pulled up by the big bad UEFA, wouldn’t want that would we.
July 4, 2009 at 18:16
Sagna is my friend on Facebook… official.
July 4, 2009 at 18:17
Oh and Geoff, I kinda feel sorry for that autistic computer hacker too… Poor fella is pretty harmless, IMO… I guess he saw the film WAR GAMES with matthew Broderick and got inspired…
July 4, 2009 at 18:18
Barcelona Ponder Move For Arsenal’s Unsettled Arshavin – Report
Sunderland Planning €14m Raid On Arsenal’s Top Striker Target
July 4, 2009 at 18:18
Pedro, tell him to cut his hair and learn to cross
July 4, 2009 at 18:19
the language used in headlines always makes me laugh. why the codes? I mean if you’re making shit up be upfront about it. Say “We’d like Arshavin to go to Barca”
July 4, 2009 at 18:19
MG, that was my post.
I feel sorry for the fucker… 60 years they want to stick him away for!
HB, I’m on it…
July 4, 2009 at 18:20
Honest Bill – hehe, well yes the same is true of arshavin. He probably has a bit more of a playmaker’s brain than rvp
July 4, 2009 at 18:20
I wonder… if this deal goes through, will we need to fund it with a sale?
July 4, 2009 at 18:20
Sorry Pedro!
Yeah, its unbelievable what could happen to him..
July 4, 2009 at 18:21
who is having a go at rvp anyway? like its been said already about a million times, he saved our arse during december and january – a key example is that equalising wonder goal against everton. imagine if those fuckers had won that game? thank fuck he scored in unjury time!!
July 4, 2009 at 18:21
MG, he hacked their computers before the days of broadband… he deserves a medal for patients like that!
July 4, 2009 at 18:21
Pat he’s a right back who played centre back I think. He played for the first team at right back as well.
“Arsenal is the only club to have come close to the sum established by the release clause.
“Fiorentina in turn proposed to the aforementioned club a reduction in the amount set by the release clause by including right-back Eboue in the deal.”
So the above was said by their sporting director to stop the rumours that Juve had bid.
Well Wenger has to do something now as he has admitted that he has no one good enough in defensive midfield, just like last year when he bid for 3 players in that position, he didn’t get them and we won nothing, he has to buy someone now if Melo falls through as he is now admitting there’s a problem.
July 4, 2009 at 18:22
i just though of a starting 11 with melo, verm and arshavin and i jizzed in my pants
July 4, 2009 at 18:22
Cut his hair HBill? whaat if he’s like samson or something, we don’t have any cover you know..
July 4, 2009 at 18:24
Mayank, fair enough just remove the fruity weave and the blonde hair dye
July 4, 2009 at 18:24
Pedro let the cunt go to America and stand trial, he has some disease that will guarantee he’ll be poncing off the state here for life, fuck him, let them pay for him.
July 4, 2009 at 18:25
Good point Mayank…
I think he’d look good with an Afro.
July 4, 2009 at 18:25
Yes but Pedro who could we sell. The only players I’m assuming we’re willing to sell this summer are Ade, Eboue, Senderos, Toure, Gallas and Silvestre. And we wouldn’t possibly sell both Toure and Gallas and Wenger would like to keep Eboue and nobody wand Ade now. Unless you’re getting at we might consider selling Cesc to Barcelona cause I’d rather sell them my testicles than sell them Fabregas who clearly loves the club.
July 4, 2009 at 18:25
You’re all heart Geoff!
July 4, 2009 at 18:26
Be careful when suggesting players cut their hair. Remember when Ade got off his locks around christman 07? He has been shite ever since (compared to his form before hand).
July 4, 2009 at 18:26
HBill the colour you’re looking for is called florescent i think.
July 4, 2009 at 18:26
I wouldn’t necessarily say that he’s admitting there’s a problem Geoff, (though most would say there is obviously!) as he could just see Melo as someone who would be an improvement, but without him we’re still ok. Bidding for someone isn’t an acceptance of a problem, every position can be improved upon.
It is interesting Fiorentina releasing the Melo negotiations, stinks to me of them trying to scare Juve into bidding more
July 4, 2009 at 18:26
One name in mind Marko… Adebayor.
He is the only player bar Eboue I could see going. Well, maybe Senderos to Villa… but I see him as gone already.
July 4, 2009 at 18:26
Do we know that vermaelen is really that good either?
Ive watched matches with him in, and just not noticed him, and ive read mixed reviews.
The only reason I expect him to be good is that arsenal dont often shell out that kind of money for a player unless they know hes good. Still its hard to get excited about
July 4, 2009 at 18:27
You’re all heart Geoff!
July 4, 2009 at 18:27
Marko, you are on your own on that one.
I would rather give them Cesc for free than give them my testicles.
July 4, 2009 at 18:28
When fabregas got long straight hair he became shit.Narsi became poor after he got those streaks. Moral: don’t mess with the hair.
July 4, 2009 at 18:28
A he said he wouldn’t buy a defensive midfield player because it would kill Denilson and Song, so if he’s buying one now, or at least trying, what on earth do you think he saying.
That was so different to last season???
July 4, 2009 at 18:29
A… or reassuring their fans they wont sell to a top 4 rival.
I don’t see how Melo can be anything other than admitting there is a problem. Just like the signing of Vermaelen is admitting we have a defensive problem.
These are established players we’re siging… not 21 year old prospects. They’re coming to play…
So yes, they are improvements… but improvements to the starting 11.
July 4, 2009 at 18:29
if we sign melo we will have a top starting 11 and some great options on the bench:
almunia
sagna vermaelen gallas clichy (remember him?!)
melo fabregas
nasri / arshavin / walcott / vela / rosicky
eduardo van persie
whichever wide players he doesnt choose, add 3 to the list that follows, which will also have the likes of:
djourou
gibbs
toure
denilson
wilshere
ramsey
song
bendtner
adebayor
barring a horrendous injury problem next year, how can that squad not challenge for silverware?
July 4, 2009 at 18:29
Chelsea wanted Pirlo they have a problem in CM with Lamps and Essien.
July 4, 2009 at 18:29
Davi, you’d have to say that for £11mill… Arsene thinks he is good enough.
July 4, 2009 at 18:30
Wenger is buying a DM to Kill Denilsong for him. Obviously…..
July 4, 2009 at 18:30
I think they should all be forced to get army style crew cuts, and barcodes tattooed on to their necks
July 4, 2009 at 18:30
Hey I wouldn’t mind him going I just think that everybody is looking elsewhere. I mean it’s funny really all last summer everyone wanted the guy and we wanted to keep him (for better or worse we kept him) and then he bitches and moans and doesn’t performs as well and now nobody wants him. Milan want Dzeko and now Fabiano. I say sell him to Lyon or someone with the cash.
July 4, 2009 at 18:31
Bill Vermaelen has! Catch you all later Grovers.
July 4, 2009 at 18:33
I could get some one to kill Denilson and Song for a lot less tho…
July 4, 2009 at 18:33
Are you saying Stu that your balls are worth 50mill. Cause I’d challenge you on that right now.
July 4, 2009 at 18:35
Ronaldo + Kaka = 150m
Balls = Priceless
There wouldn’t be any footie w/o balls.
July 4, 2009 at 18:35
Pedro – yes, that’s why im not worried about him being crap, still, having watched him I didnt see any brilliance in him, so it’s hard to get really excited.
I did only watch him in friendlies a year or 2 ago, so it’s very likely hes improved. But I just dont get the excitement, and the way people just assume hes going to be great.
I *hope hes great of course, I just prefer to wait till Ive seen him play a bit before getting excited
July 4, 2009 at 18:36
pedro he did said again and again – but during the season – tht there is no need to reinforce defence and kill thing abt denilsong…
but post season interview i dont remember exactly but it was something like he admitted to but cb
July 4, 2009 at 18:39
He also put Diaby in that “killing” statement too… Does that mean he sees Diaby as a potential DM enforcer then?
July 4, 2009 at 18:40
Mangoonian, everyone knows Diaby’s best position is wide left.
July 4, 2009 at 18:41
Davi, he cant be that bad if he’s a starter for Brazil, plus he has experience.
July 4, 2009 at 18:43
Fuck this….im just gonna say this and whoever disagrees is a gowl.
We should buy Clint Dempsey and Gretar Steinsson!
Any problems! Wanna fight about it! YEAH!!
July 4, 2009 at 18:43
Anyone using the term Denilsong in a derogatory fashion shall also be executed too….
July 4, 2009 at 18:44
What the fck is a Denilsong?
July 4, 2009 at 18:44
Stu, It’s a hideous amalgamation of Denilson and Song
July 4, 2009 at 18:44
Arsene pull the trigger 14m plus Eboue plus Senderos and we have the missing part.. However i cant see Eboue leaving for a club like Fiorentina because he already stated, earlier this month that he doesnt want to join Viola only, one of the Big Three in Italy.. Lets wait and see. In Wenger i trust.
July 4, 2009 at 18:45
Anybody think that the deals are going through faster thatnks to Gazidis? He’s supposed to be a transfer specialist over at MLS, signed a record no. of player or something.
July 4, 2009 at 18:45
I still dont get it.
July 4, 2009 at 18:45
I believe Denilsong is a creation of BBK…
Wow, I thought redcards were serious… MG is dishing out executions!
July 4, 2009 at 18:45
The statement about killing Denilsong wasn’t meant as an “i didn’t sign anyone because it would have killed them”, it was a there are positives from every situation sort of thing, as well as saying that’s why he wasn’t desperate to sign a DM, even though he never denied he did try to last summer. I don’t see this summer as being any different, it’s certainly a position we can improve upon, but if players targetted aren’t available or the moves don’t go through, wenger is happy to stick with what we’ve got.
July 4, 2009 at 18:46
Sign Joey Barton he’ll beat up the opposition for us and also keep the french players in line with his overall scumminess.
July 4, 2009 at 18:46
I dunno Mayank. Arshavins deal took a month for whatever reason. We all knew about Vermaelen for about a week or two before he signed. Not exactly a few days each. And Melo…we dont really know with him yet.
July 4, 2009 at 18:46
Bill – I was talking about vermaelen.
Melo doesnt excite me either to be honest though. I dont think he’s crap, but having watched him in the confeds cup, he really didnt impress. he didnt look anything special worth the sort of money that is spoken about.
He started for brazil in that competition,but they are well known for playing weakened sides and trying players out in these types of tournaments.
Considering we are looking for an “enforcer”, melo didnt look that “forceful”. He had some good moments, puts in som strong challenges, but he seems to shy away from responsibility a bit when it comes to bringing the ball out. Gilberto looked a lot more authoritative imo.
As i say, Id be happy for us to get melo, at least its likely that hed play a lot of games, but I dont think hes worth the sort of money theyr talking about.
July 4, 2009 at 18:47
I know its not friday but
July 4, 2009 at 18:48
i dont know why im gettin so excited by vermaelen either, but tbh, ive only heard good things about him.
and i dont want to be mr negative but barring sol campbell, which other outstanding cb’s has he bought during his time at arsenal? im not tryin to start another debate here, but arsene’s defensive signings havent always been super…
July 4, 2009 at 18:48
Oh and his experience isnt exactly extensive.
he was at almeria last season and has risen slowly from lower league sides, so in fact, denilson probably has more relevant experience than him, having played in so many ECL and PL matches
July 4, 2009 at 18:48
If Wenger was happy with the situation he wouldnt be looking ti improve it. Simples…..
July 4, 2009 at 18:50
A… I don’t think so… he wouldn’t go into the new season without any new players this time around.
He admitted he made mistakes last year, now he is doing his best to rectify them.
There is no way he’d be happy to go into a new season with the same squad.
July 4, 2009 at 18:50
Davi, I haven’t seen a great deal of Melo, even less of Vermaelen. But i guess people are just making assumptions. He was captain of Ajax, they paid a 10M or thereabouts for him, which is unlike Arsene, plus we need reinforcements in that position, so his inclusion can’t really be a bad thing
July 4, 2009 at 18:50
Sagna, Lauren, Gallas, Toure.
July 4, 2009 at 18:50
Sol – gallas and toure are pretty outstanding, although not always together.
I think most clubs would have jumped at the chance to sign either of them at the end of last season, and both have won loads during their careers.
Sol Campbell was better than both of them tho imo, and I agree he’s made a lot of cock-ups with his defensive signings.
I’m positive djourou will be world-class though, and song could be great at CB as well
July 4, 2009 at 18:51
Sol was free, as was Gallas. Wenger tends not to ‘buy’ world class defenders. He just doesnt rate defenders imo.
July 4, 2009 at 18:52
I have only seen Melo in the Confederations Cup and he was not that great, but he has to be better than what we have already got
After all, Denilson is also Brazilian and cant get in the National Team and Melo can.
So if this happens, i am going to get excited by it.
July 4, 2009 at 18:53
Pat… I reckon he’s one of those ‘On the verge of greatness’ players… like Arshavin and hopefully Vermaelen.
July 4, 2009 at 18:53
Barca wil sign players and they are apparantly the best team ever, now, does that mean they have a problem, or that Pep just wants to add to his squad and improve it???
July 4, 2009 at 18:53
i think we are all guilty of gettin our hopes up here, i wud have flamini or diarra over melo any day of the week.
melo is good, in the confed cup he played better than average but nothing special at all, gilberto was the star of that centre midfield pairing by a mile.
an interesting name that nobody is rly talking about is mahamadou diarra. he has been out for a while with injury but that man mountain would be fucking perfect. and hes french isnt he? that always helps…
July 4, 2009 at 18:53
Depends on whether they will start or not MG.
July 4, 2009 at 18:54
pattg;
Why must melo be better than what we have? That aint a given, especially as you say, he hardly impressed during the only games you and most iof us have seen him play///
I for one, think Song has it in him to be a top player at DM and CB…
July 4, 2009 at 18:54
It depends where he signs players MG.
Hleb was an improvement… Thierry was a first teamer.
Silvestre was supposed to be an improvement… Arshavin was an improvement.
Plus… two different kettles of fish here. Barca can sign a £20mill player and bench him… we don’t have the resource to contemplate that.
July 4, 2009 at 18:55
Diarra is Cameroonian. And has been injured for about the last 7months after knee surgery. Great player tho. He is a proper beast tho…
July 4, 2009 at 18:56
Bill – yes that is my position as well. So I’m trusting he will be a good signing, in the long-run at least.
Im just saying despite this assumption, its hard to get excited about someone I’ve never seen, and I find it hard to understadn why others can get so excited.
It’s like people are assuming hes going to really change our team. I think its more likely hes a long-term partner for djourou (who prefers to play as the right CB) and as immediate cover for gallas.
July 4, 2009 at 18:56
Well MG, he should be better than what we hae because it would be pointless to spend 15m or so on a player that isnt better than what we already have in that position.
July 4, 2009 at 18:56
Sol… I don’t think how you play for your national team is an indicator of whether you are good or not.
How many players flop on the big stage? Look at France the last few years… it doesn’t mean I wouldn’t have Ribery.
Look at the Dutch… consistent failures… and up until recently… Spain.
July 4, 2009 at 18:57
Eboue is indeed a great quarterback.
July 4, 2009 at 18:58
Davi, dont know what/who you are talking about but we only seem to have right sided CBs. Toure, Gallas, JD are all right siders. Only Senderos who is likely to be sold, Silvestre who is shit and Vermaelen who we just signed are left siders. Lack of ballance there.
July 4, 2009 at 18:58
Stu;
Have we signed him? Mustve missed that…
July 4, 2009 at 18:58
i agree gallas was a great addition but that only really makes 2 top cb signings. kolo was imperious for a few seasons but he is tailing off a bit now really. i hope he shrugs off the idea that he is moving if he isnt sold and concentrates on his football and maybe we will see king kolo once more.
we have to remmeber the african cup of nations is going on next season, so eboue, song, toure and adebayor will be missing. maybe arsene is thinking about that if we do indeed sign melo.
July 4, 2009 at 18:58
Good point ManGoonian, yeah Villa and Mascherano if they happen will definitely start, it doesn’t mean that Barca are admitting a problem they need sorting!
I agree that Wenger is more eager to sign people seemingly this summer Pedro than he was last season, but it doesn’t mean it’s an admittance of a problem, so if we don’t end up getting Melo then it’s a massive failure or whatever, and we’re buggered. He’s just more eager to improve on certain areas as this is the last year he has to work with, so is determined to have a top top side, but if our targets fell through Wenger would be happy with Denilsong i’m sure
July 4, 2009 at 18:58
Barca are looking at players because there’s some problems with Eto’o possibly brought on by Man City, that and he was used as a scapegoat during the final seasons of Rjkaard and they also want cover Henry because of his age and they don’t quite think Bojan is good enough. Thats why they’ve been linked with Villa, Ribery and Juan Mata.
July 4, 2009 at 18:59
And you obviuously didnt get the point I was making, shame on you!
July 4, 2009 at 18:59
And Marko didnt get it wither
July 4, 2009 at 18:59
either
July 4, 2009 at 19:00
STu Diarra is from Mali.
July 4, 2009 at 19:00
What?
July 4, 2009 at 19:00
MG, Stu didn’t say we’d signed him. He said it would be pointless to spend £15mill on a player who wasn’t better than what we already had.
July 4, 2009 at 19:01
Stu both Gallas and JD are left sided centre backs despite being right footed. Gallas certainly, although he’s top quality so can play right if needed, but naturally he’s a left sided centre back. That’s also why he’s played left back a fair bit in his career – he’s more comfortable on the left. Kolo is actually the only naturally right sided centre back, the rest are all left sided
July 4, 2009 at 19:01
Whatever Marko. I was just saying he wasnt French. Thats all. My mistake.
July 4, 2009 at 19:02
just to clear things up, m diarra plays for mali, but i assume he is french speaking, so i wasnt too wrong with that
July 4, 2009 at 19:02
Thanks A! You got it!
July 4, 2009 at 19:03
A, i consider him a right sider because at chelski JT was the left sider and Gallas played right there.
And i remember when we played the chavs at the bridge last season Gallas was on the right.
July 4, 2009 at 19:03
Pedro;
You dont get my point, shame on you too!
July 4, 2009 at 19:03
I get you now MG. There’s a reason there that we’re going in the right direction this summer. Every year we always seem to lose players from a squad that is already pretty small but so far this summer we have signed up a few of our team and have already added and it would seem will keep adding.
July 4, 2009 at 19:04
Gunner4life, in Wenger you trust! It was him that had Song and Denilson all season in the DM role, now he’s about to spend £15million putting it right.
He could have had Alonso last August for £12million, and still in Wenger you trust!
July 4, 2009 at 19:05
A… I don’t think there is any question that there is a problem. I think all you have to do is look at the table to see that… or look at our semi final performances.
Again, Barca is a totally different proposition. Villa looks like he could replace Eto’o. Plus, they hardly have an abundance of strikers at the moment… especially if Gudjohnson leaves.
+ the Mascharano thing looks like it is being mooted by his agent, not the club.
Saying they are squad improvements is like saying Ronaldo and Kaka are just squad improvements. It’s not true. Arsenal don’t spend the type of money being talked about on an improvement.
July 4, 2009 at 19:05
jesus, the bbc have put this potential transfer as their main story on the football page. maybe we shud be gettin excited then!! woohoooooooo! ill crack open a bottle of champers!
July 4, 2009 at 19:05
Marko;
Yeah, so far we are actually ADDING to the squad instead of simply REPLACING players… Hopefully that will still be the case by September 1st.
July 4, 2009 at 19:05
He speaks french though Stu. Damn just forget it I hate you were you’re in this mood. I’m gonna go to the shops if you wanna come with
July 4, 2009 at 19:05
I thought Liverpool refused to sell Alonso, after the Barry thing fell through
July 4, 2009 at 19:06
Geoff;
The scousers wanted £18 million for Alonso, not £12m. I think Wenger wouldve splashed that amount on him.
July 4, 2009 at 19:06
I can trust a man who admits he can make mistakes.
July 4, 2009 at 19:07
HB;
Yeah true dat
July 4, 2009 at 19:07
I remember Terry right and Gallas left Stu, when Gallas wasn’t left back…. Googling line ups i can see have terry right and gallas left too. Gallas has played right a fair bit when Toure has been out with us, as senderos/silvestre/jd are/were all left sided, but imo he’s always looked a bit uncomfortable when he has played on the right for us.
It’s why I wonder about his future with the signing of Vermaelen
July 4, 2009 at 19:07
MG, it would be nice to have a healthy squad size by September. I can’t help but think if Melo is signed… we’ll be a little over subscribed in the middle?
July 4, 2009 at 19:07
Stu – gallas is versatile, and has played left CB for us since he signed.
In the 07/08 season he was particularly good playing there with toure. I dont know if it is his preferred position, but he seems to play there now, and doesnt ask djourou to play there when toure is injured
So its toure and JD who play right and gallas, vermaelen, silvestre and senderos who play on the left usually, although I expect at least one of silvestre and senderos to leave. Song also plays on the left when hes with djourou, but on the right when hes with gallas.
I think the left/right CB issue affects some players more than others. I cant explain why
July 4, 2009 at 19:08
You hate me Marko? You dont even know me! How dare you!
July 4, 2009 at 19:08
No Bill we were 500k short or so. And that came from Benitez himself.
July 4, 2009 at 19:08
Marko and Stu… are you guys having a tiff online?
July 4, 2009 at 19:09
just a side point on alex song, i actually think he is better than toure in central defence. when i think about it, he is very strong in the air with those aerial balls every time i see him play there.
July 4, 2009 at 19:09
Melo = Alonso but with the ability to tackle and stand up to challenges. They’re both very good passers of the ball.
July 4, 2009 at 19:10
Only on here would the possibility of a new signing resort to it being turned into a negative thing….
Maybe Im hyper sensitive today due to my self induced illness? But why the fuck does it have to be a fucking problem?
July 4, 2009 at 19:10
Yeah Bill, loads of stories came out a while back saying Alonso was actually at the ground to go through the motions and sign and Benitez cancelled it at the last minute because Barry fell through
July 4, 2009 at 19:10
I don’t hate you Stu. I respect you too much to hate you
July 4, 2009 at 19:11
A, i guess you have convinced me i was wrong. Theres a first
Davi, its understandable how sides affect players. Left side CB and right side CB are effectively 2 positions.Saying either side is the same is like saying left back is the same as right back. But obviously there is a different role to play each side.
July 4, 2009 at 19:11
song shud be made captain.
July 4, 2009 at 19:11
Oh right Geoff, I hadn’t realised that.
And as for the left right thing, The same thing applies to forwards, some can just play either and don’t really care as long as they’re in front of goal, whereas others feel more comfortable one side or the other.
Although i think your dominant foot is less important for a CB than for a CF
July 4, 2009 at 19:11
JD is not a left sided CB.
Ive never seen him play well there. He was very solid playing to the right of gallas this year, but not at all when playing to the left of toure.
He also had a great partnership with senderos. I remember some excellent games with those two, one in particular against man utd.
He also plays to the right of song.
July 4, 2009 at 19:11
Benitez said we were $500k shy of the transfer fee???
I dont remember that, or did you just make it up? Hmmmm
July 4, 2009 at 19:11
really geoff, any idea where the quotes would be? Never heard that, if it’s true it’s ridiculous, though i’d be shocked
July 4, 2009 at 19:11
No it wasn’t MancGoonian, I promise. Anyway the point was he tried to buy Toure, Alonso and Inler, then he said he didn’t because it would have killed Diaby, Denilson and Song so he didn’t.
Now he’s after Melo, so what does that say about those three then, they’re working? And he’s happy, no it says he was wrong and they aren’t good enough.
July 4, 2009 at 19:11
I dunno Pedro. Im a likke consused here…:???:
July 4, 2009 at 19:12
I hate Stu
July 4, 2009 at 19:12
have we signed melo yet
July 4, 2009 at 19:13
All this blogging today combined with the weather has done my head in.
July 4, 2009 at 19:13
Thanks very much MG. Wanna fight about it!
July 4, 2009 at 19:13
Goeff;
Obviously he rates Denilson and Song or they would be sold. We lost 3 central midfielders in a short space of time, so, that needs to be addressed as it wasnt, for whatever reason, last summer.
See, no problems, just positives in my book.
July 4, 2009 at 19:13
July 4, 2009 at 19:14
Deals never fail over 500k
Rafa: I want 15.5m
Wenger: I’ll give you 15m
Rafa: 15m, are you crazy old man? I wouldn’t sell you a virus for that much. Good day sir!
July 4, 2009 at 19:14
Emmanuel Adebayor has ended a year of uncertainty over his future at Arsenal by committing himself to the club and ending speculation that he would leave the Emirates after three seasons in north London.
On Friday, manager Arsène Wenger placed the onus on Adebayor to state his intentions and clear the way for any potential suitors when the Arsenal manager said: “If he does not want to stay he will leave, but I think that he will be still at Arsenal this season.”
While Chelsea and Barcelona were monitoring the player’s situation, Milan and Internazionale were favourites to buy the 25-year-old having begun their courtship last summer when Adebayor first appeared on the verge of a move.
He chose to stay but, having scored only 16 goals for Arsenal last season, compared with 30 the previous term, the Togo striker appeared unsettled and has offered mixed messages during the last few months about where he would play next season.
Last week the Milan vice-president, Adriano Galliani, appeared to signal an impending bid from the Rossoneri when he said: “I’ve called Arsenal to inform them of our interest. I’ve spoken to Arsène Wenger and Adebayor was part of the conversation during which Wenger was friendly.”
But when contacted by Observer Sport today and asked if Adebayor would like to leave the club, Stephane Courbis, the striker’s agent, said: “No, no.” When pressed if Adebayor definitely wanted to stay at Arsenal, Courbis was clear. “Yes. It’s the same [situation] as last week,” he said, referring to comments that it was up to Wenger to declare his position regarding Adebayor.
July 4, 2009 at 19:14
See Geoff, MG cant even spell your name. Yellow card!
July 4, 2009 at 19:15
Stu;
You want some of me huh, punk?
July 4, 2009 at 19:15
Davi with song JD has always played left, like against west brom….
July 4, 2009 at 19:16
please tell me samir you just fabricated that report as a joke…
July 4, 2009 at 19:16
Hahaha! Stu, you trying to get me in trouble?
July 4, 2009 at 19:16
Also when you fail to sign a player for a position you don’t tell the player you had for that place that he sucks but sadly will have to play cause Rafa’s a stubborn bastard.
July 4, 2009 at 19:16
MG we need a defensive midfielder because Denilson and Song are simply not good enough, he gave them a chance and they didn’t do the job, now he’s after Melo, simple really.
We have more central midfielders than Chelsea FFS we didn’t lose any of them.
July 4, 2009 at 19:17
MG, your gonna regret ever angering me!
Sol, im assuming so because nothing from Ade in that.
July 4, 2009 at 19:17
LOL sol. It looks like Adebayor is deffo staying….
July 4, 2009 at 19:17
July 4, 2009 at 19:17
STU- from Ade’s mouth:
But when contacted by Observer Sport today and asked if Adebayor would like to leave the club, Stephane Courbis, the striker’s agent, said: “No, no.” When pressed if Adebayor definitely wanted to stay at Arsenal, Courbis was clear. “Yes. It’s the same [situation] as last week,” he said, referring to comments that it was up to Wenger to declare his position regarding Adebayor.
July 4, 2009 at 19:18
NO NO Samir, from Courbis’s mouth. Am i reading something different to what your posting?
July 4, 2009 at 19:18
Geoff;
Thats YOUR take on it, I think they werent ready to shoulder the responsibility of that position startight away and shudve been used sparingly with a more experienced player as 1st choice.
I think they are good enough for the vast majority of games, but adding a new DM is simply Wenger doing what he shudve last summer, IMO.
July 4, 2009 at 19:19
I’ll give you an exclusive right now!!
Arsenal offered 8m plus Senderos, Melo made it clear he wanted to leave, Fiorentina didn’t think it was enough and have since asked Melo to remain loyal (in a sense of signing a new contract to put the get out fee at a lot higher than it previously was) he signed a year extension and got approx half a mill signing on fee, now the get out fee is higher arsenal have had to offer more cash and are trying to throw in Eboue as part of the deal which Firoentina are not interested in as they have other targets to replace Melo, namely Veloso…Expect Arsenal to complete the signing tail end of next week.
July 4, 2009 at 19:19
lol i just read that article too, the biggest non story ever, how can that be under the headline Ade says he’s staying?!
July 4, 2009 at 19:19
Inter bought Milito and Arnautovic or whatever from Twente and Milan wanted Dzeko but will get Fabiano. We’re stuck with Ade even though we don’t want him now. Shit I say.
July 4, 2009 at 19:19
Song and Denilson werent the reason we were 4th, or lost the semi’s.
Other players failed us too. Cesc did fuck all in either CL semi leg, for example. But I dont wanna drag up shite again…
July 4, 2009 at 19:20
Wel his agents mouth..
July 4, 2009 at 19:20
Soz about that lol
July 4, 2009 at 19:20
That’s what I’ve been saying since last August. Only I don’t think they’re any better than cover.
July 4, 2009 at 19:21
Dave Fiorentina themselves have said they want Eboue and THEY proposed his inclusion, not arsenal….
July 4, 2009 at 19:21
A – now u mention it, u might be right!
That ruins my logic completely
I had this all sorted out!
It doesnt make sense then, cos JD played so well with gallas but relatively crap with toure, and in the other situations he plays right and plays well on that side.
I definitely remember seeing song on the right side and playing well too…
Nevermind. It looks as though we have an adequate number of players who can play left and right CB anyway currently
July 4, 2009 at 19:22
Dave;
V interesting fella…
July 4, 2009 at 19:22
The dance has begun,he will come.
July 4, 2009 at 19:22
Dave
Fiorentina asked Arsenal to throw in Eboue. It is on their website.
July 4, 2009 at 19:23
If manc fans can remain posititve after signing Owen surely we can be positive about possibly Melo.
July 4, 2009 at 19:23
I dont remember song ever playing right side. Apart from when he played right back against everton and was an embarrassment. He is a left sider. Simple as that.
July 4, 2009 at 19:23
MG, I think it’s pretty clear that a player of Cesc’s ability is not really a problem. He might have off games… but overall, his failings don’t lead you to 4th.
If he’s playing badly… it’s because he’s not getting the protection around him.
I just went on tribal football… Arsenal are advertising the Emirates cup on there.
You’d think they’d be asking the Arsenal blogs to advertise… a captive audience of Arsenal fans day in day out?
How dim…
July 4, 2009 at 19:23
adebayor is a money chasing bellend. i still cant believe some of the quotations from last summer. and even worse was that bbc football focus interview he did where he essentially blamed the fans for his lack of effort and endeavour on the pitch. he has made it very difficult to redeem himself.
ofc i wud get behind him if he stays, but only if he stops talkin to the press and starts puttin in some yards and works hard on the pitch for his teammates.
it would help as well if he had an offside detecting facility built into his brain. the man is offside more than ronaldo is a cunt. i know that doesnt make sense really but u know wot i mean. cuz ronaldo IS a cunt.
July 4, 2009 at 19:24
Davi i’m 75% certain that Gallas was pushed right when JD was playing, and he was actually playing left. It was against Pompey too song and jd played, jd left song right. I don’t think it’s positional that means JD played better with Gallas, it’s because JD is very very dumb, so plays much better with someone who leads and organises like Gallas, than someone like Kolo who ideally needs to play alongside a leader and organiser himself
July 4, 2009 at 19:24
oh no mr wenger just broke the news!
July 4, 2009 at 19:25
Stu against both wba and pompey with JD Song was right, JD left
July 4, 2009 at 19:25
Pedro everyone from arsenal’s staff is banned from visiting blogs. Didn’t you know that?
July 4, 2009 at 19:26
Fiorentina want Eboue and we want Melo and a few weeks back Eboue said he wanted to leave for more first team football. Throw into the mix that we tied down Ramsey and Wilshere to new contracts and that they can play in Eboue position then it really shouldn’t make this deal farfetched or difficult to complete. All parties wants what the other is willing to give. Like a drunk lady asking for the good stuff.
July 4, 2009 at 19:26
There there Eboue. You are better off somewhere else where the fans appreciate you.
July 4, 2009 at 19:27
Fiorentina will never get 21 million for Melo unless off course they sell to Real Madrid,several weeks ago his buy out clause was 14 million.
July 4, 2009 at 19:27
Well then A, i watched both on streams and i tend not to pay much attention when watching on streams so……
July 4, 2009 at 19:27
Mayank, I don’t see the Owen deal as a poor one!
He is on a pay as you play type deal… he is proven and he’s hungry.
July 4, 2009 at 19:27
geoff…i’ve just realised Arsene’s Youth Policy which you love so much is now being seriously challenged at Milan…
Berlosconi likes ‘em at 18 too…and ‘untested’…and stops at no expense to pay them top whack…
which do you think will come out ‘on top’ ?
July 4, 2009 at 19:27
Yeah Dnish, then he signed an extension and they upped the buy put to 25m.
July 4, 2009 at 19:28
Mayank… no way!
Regardless… it’s about selling a product.
You couldn’t get a better bit of advertising space for an Arsenal tournament… than on an Arsenal blog that has people on it 24/7!
July 4, 2009 at 19:29
haha, nice one Blazon.
That old dog is a champ in my eyes… 70 years old and still nicking birds.
What a champ.
July 4, 2009 at 19:29
People who are talking about cover for sagna.
Keep in mind that Arsenal are very close to signing Naldo from Bremen. He is a giant stopper who also plays as a RB. So there. Problem solved.
I also think Melo and Naldo will be the end of our summer transfers (selling toure to Man City) as long as ‘The Offside Kng’ does not leave. If he does then we’ll go in for Chamakh.
Almunia
Sagna Gallas Vermaelen Clichy
Melo
Fabregas Nasri
Ashravin Van Persie
Chamakh
Subs
Fabianski
Naldo
Rosicky
Denilson
Bedntner
Vela
Eduardo
July 4, 2009 at 19:29
Pedro, how much do you think they would pay you for the advertising space?
July 4, 2009 at 19:29
A; They were keen on Senderos but not on Eboue so much.
Crazy thing about all this is we could have signed Melo few years back for penuts when he was at Gremio, he’s actually married into Gilberto’s family his sister or cousin not exactly sure and was keen on getting Gilberto to get his foot in the door.
Only trouble is if he gets on well here see him moving on in a couple of seasons, he’s got itchy feet
July 4, 2009 at 19:30
It depends Pedro, I see it as a pretty big risk, talks are that he’s on 50k a week, with appearances and goals adding on top of that, but it’s still a fair wedge for someone with his injury record! Also someone who HAS to be in the first team squad, so takes up a position as a first team squad member, so if the risk doesn’t pay off they’re one player short, and have a fair bit in wages pissing down the drain
July 4, 2009 at 19:30
Dave, it’s on the official Viola site… you don’t get keener than that!
July 4, 2009 at 19:30
He should’ve been hungry to keep newcastle up too Pedro. I’m sure if we signed him there’d be a footlong post on LG on Wenger losing his nuts and deservingly so. Even if the deal works out in their favour the fact is they’ve sold ronaldo and tevez and brought in mr. 3 goals for wigan and owen. Still they’re positive.
July 4, 2009 at 19:31
A, £50k a week, no transfer fee and a proven goal scorer.
His injuries are a risk… but he is on half the money Tevez was and he could offer double the goals.
It’s a risk worth taking if you have the money to do it.
July 4, 2009 at 19:32
Dave they’ve said on their official website that we came in with a cash offer, and they proposed that we could include eboue as part of the deal – sounds to me like they’re pretty keen on him! Does that mean Senderos is staying then?
Adarsh Chamakh starting ahead of Eduardo, or Bendtner for that matter?! I assume you’re having a laugh?!
July 4, 2009 at 19:32
That is why i think the dance has begun,Eboue could represent 6 or 7 million,then we need to find 14 or fifteen mil,there will probably be some hard bargains but in the end we will get him,this is a typical Arsenal transfer and will happen.
July 4, 2009 at 19:33
Mayank, I wouldn’t have written it.
Well… saying that, there would be no need for Owen at Arsenal…
I do think he’s worth a punt…
Newcastle was a shambles. To go from the bright lights of Madrid to that shower of shit must have been demoralising.
July 4, 2009 at 19:33
If we buy Melo surely we will have to off load Adebayor?????????
July 4, 2009 at 19:33
Well, Owen goin to United is only good news for the plastic Sky Sports lovin United fans.
All the local ones are gutted!
July 4, 2009 at 19:34
A, I reckon Senderos is a Villa player…
He is right up their street!
July 4, 2009 at 19:35
It may be that they realise, they’re not going to get the cash the hoped for and are up to taking players, but thats a complete turnaround from their original standing, probably playing hardball…If I get anything else I post up, but wont hear until 2moro night at the earliest.
July 4, 2009 at 19:35
i dont want to leave arsenal i am going to reject the fiorentina approach
July 4, 2009 at 19:36
I dunno if I’d call him Proven Pedro, he got 8 goals in 29 games last season in the league, he’s lost his goalscoring touch. Though if it’s a case of his just being unmotivated at Newcastle then maybe he could find something at Utd to get him going, but he wasn’t the same player after injuries at Madrid but still scored goals, then since his big injury with England he’s not even scored goals since, as well as his all round game being a shadow of what it used to be.
50k is a fair bit of money, that’s more or less 6 mil over 2 years, but if utd have the money to splash then fair enough. If it was us i’d be absolutely disgusted at signing Owen!!
July 4, 2009 at 19:36
Pedro;
My point was that there were many reasons we finished 4th, injuries, poor form, bad attitudes and piss poor performances, particlualry early season were all reasons we finished 4th. My point about Cesc wasnt me saying he is shite, just that he failed to do anything in eiother CL game. Choosing to blame Denilson or Song is a sad indictment of todays throw away society….
July 4, 2009 at 19:36
MG, everyone loves sky sports… it feeds us our football and props up our league… it’s also given us greats like Kirstie Gallagher, Georgie Thompson and Millie Clode.
July 4, 2009 at 19:38
I hope Melo is seeing his doctor about geting some foot powder…
July 4, 2009 at 19:38
MG, it’s not a sad indictment of anything. I think it’s a pretty widely held view that we’re not strong enough in the middle of the park. Sure, there were other problems… but for me, centre of defence and the holding role were the main issues last season.
Wenger looks to be addressing that now, which is the biggest positive of all.
Song can move back to centre of defence… Denilson can develop next to a more complete player.
July 4, 2009 at 19:38
And Richard Keys, Jamie Redknapp, Andy Gray…
July 4, 2009 at 19:40
No, its a sad indictment Pedro!
Look, I wanted to use that sentence all week and I aint letting you take it away from me… Thats a really sad indict… oh forget it!
July 4, 2009 at 19:40
I like Jamie Redknapp.
I saw Andy Gray walking down the street once… his head is huge… it was the same when I saw Des Lynam… like real life charactertures!
July 4, 2009 at 19:40
Like Wenger and now his agent have stated Ade will stay.
With the positive vibes comming from the gaffer of possible signings, to supplement our young and hungry squad. He’d be a fool to continue whoring himself about to miss out on what could be a winning especially as no-one don’t want his lazy backside…!
Has Bendtner been offered a new contract yet?
July 4, 2009 at 19:40
MG… I can’t deny that it was a great sentence.
July 4, 2009 at 19:41
I got a bit carried away talking about a ‘polarized society’ for a bit.
Sounds good…
July 4, 2009 at 19:41
who has stated he’s gonna stay sir henry?!?! I’ve not seen a single quote saying that
July 4, 2009 at 19:42
Henry, if he stays and fights like he used to next year… it’ll be good news for everyone.
July 4, 2009 at 19:42
even i know jamie redknapp is a biast cunt we think hes a cock back in ivory coast and the arsenal players think so 2
July 4, 2009 at 19:43
So do most of us in England Eboue
July 4, 2009 at 19:43
But when contacted by Observer Sport today and asked if Adebayor would like to leave the club, Stephane Courbis, the striker’s agent, said: “No, no.” When pressed if Adebayor definitely wanted to stay at Arsenal, Courbis was clear. “Yes. It’s the same [situation] as last week,”
Agent talk for no one wants him.
July 4, 2009 at 19:44
Eboue, I think he is quite fair in his assessments.
July 4, 2009 at 19:46
Both wenger and ade have made comments that to me sound like he’s more likely to move than not, and they’ve been accompanied with headlines saying he’s staying – very weird
July 4, 2009 at 19:46
He’s fair as long as he can talk about how great United or the chavs are…. Then there’s LIverpool and the spuds of course…
July 4, 2009 at 19:46
Guess it’s all about opinions Pedro – I see Redknapp as one of the most clueless pundits around!
July 4, 2009 at 19:49
jamie redknapps sister swallows i would know
July 4, 2009 at 19:53
“I like Jamie Redknapp”
Wtf? How the fuck can anyone like Jamie Redknapp unless you’re a Chelski fan. I’ve never seen a more biased football pundit. He’s utter fucking shyte.
July 4, 2009 at 19:53
jamie redknapp probably swallows too
July 4, 2009 at 19:54
I like him.
I didn’t say he was the greatest pundit around, I didn’t say his sister didn’t swallow and I didn’t say I’d rather share a cab with him over Georgie.
I just said I liked him.
July 4, 2009 at 19:55
Redknapp makes Andy Gray look impartial
July 4, 2009 at 19:55
i beat cesc in fifa yesterday
July 4, 2009 at 19:56
“The players need to know the borders, so they don’t exceed them again,” said Nerlinger.
The tougher stance is the brainchild of manager Louis van Gaal, a notoriously tough disciplinarian, added Nerlinger.
“We unconditionally support him in this,” he continued.
“We have told Franck clearly that we are building a team around him and a sale is not an issue for debate.
“The topic will soon take care of itself. Franck will stay with Bayern Munich.”
You gotta love that stance!
YOU WILL LOVE US!
July 4, 2009 at 19:56
Pedro;
You “like” him… I think I get it now…
Lets move on people…*whistles*
July 4, 2009 at 19:57
A, If Wenger says he staying then that says to me that he does not want him to leave. That’s big to someone like Ade, seeing as there isn’t a team that are serious about securing his services..
The Redknapp’s (incl Louise) can suck my big toe. (actually Louise can suck my big D*) they are all suspect imho….
July 4, 2009 at 19:59
Harry Redknapp is cute… He looks like a St Bernard
July 4, 2009 at 20:00
You wouldn’t want harry sucking your big toe would you?
July 4, 2009 at 20:00
harry redknapp twitches a lot stupid cunt
July 4, 2009 at 20:00
Sir Henry, Wenger said no one would leave last year as well…
July 4, 2009 at 20:01
Depends how big the lump of dog shit was on the end of it GM.
July 4, 2009 at 20:02
Wenger didn’t say he’s staying henry – he said “if he wants to leave he’ll leave, but i think he’ll stay”, and his agent said “it’s the same situation as last week”, where he said “wenger has to clarify his position as to whether he wants ade to stay or go”, and just said “no, no” to being asked if ade wants to leave.
Noone in public is gonna say they want a player to leave, or it causes problems and reduces offers, but wenger not saying he’s desperate for him to stay is as close as you can get to showing that he’s very willing to discuss any offers! Also ade has more or less said if an offer is accepted he’s very willing to leave.
July 4, 2009 at 20:02
nice one pedro
July 4, 2009 at 20:05
The Dutch striker is poised to become the key player in Arsene Wenger’s re-building efforts, with William Gallas and Emmanuel Adebayor the most likely to depart.
———————————–
Don’t you just love the Daily mail? They use a positive Arsenal story (van Persie signing a new deal) and put a negative spin on it (Ade and Gallas leaving), well, depending on your view point anyways…
July 4, 2009 at 20:07
Pedro – What do you mean by Yellow Card?
Stu – I’m talking exclusively as a class back-up for Sagna. In the CL QF at Anfield who would you have preferred at right full-back …. Toure or Eboue?
I rest my case
July 4, 2009 at 20:09
for those in the U.S., and elsewhere, good news re Setanta next season…
“Setanta Sports is alive and well in the USA
New York, July 1, 2009 – In response to some level of customer confusion following the announcement on June 23rd that sports broadcaster, Setanta Sports, is no longer trading in Great Britain, Setanta Sports USA today moved to clarify that it is business as usual in America.
Setanta Sports US is part of the Setanta Sports International group of companies which also includes the Setanta Sports Canada, Setanta Sports Australia, and Setanta Transmissions, which provides broadcast facilities to all Setanta International channels. None of these businesses has been affected by the closure of the British operation.
The acquisition of broadcast rights for Setanta Sports US and the other international businesses has always been entirely separate to the rights that were acquired for Setanta Sports in Britain. Accordingly there has been no change to the premium live sports content schedule and broadcasts which includes the upcoming season of the Barclays Premier League, UEFA Champions League, the FA Cup, Coca-Cola Championship and Heineken European Cup, amongst other top-notch programming.”
that’s a relief…at least for one more season.
July 4, 2009 at 20:12
Toure is an invincible… I’d take him.
I can’t believe a player like Toure can’t adapt to cover at right back.
July 4, 2009 at 20:13
hey Michael, I don’t know sometimes I get,’ no no your right, but that Louise lol…
But in all seriousness Pedro I think things were a little out of his control. Ade has signed a fat £80k a week contract only but a year ago. Who would be stupid enough to buy him? Chelsea? Man Utd?
July 4, 2009 at 20:14
Sir Henry… I think the question is…
Who would be stupid enough to pay him the same?
If no one is that stupid… he’ll stay and sit on his winnings.
July 4, 2009 at 20:14
“My wish is to leave because I think it’s time. Or, if it’s necessary and I stay, I would also be happy.
———————————-
The modern day footballer… Keeping all his options open…. Well, I am more than happy to play for this great club, but in football, you never know….yadda yadda
Gawd love em…
July 4, 2009 at 20:18
Toure can cover at rb but if we’re buying that Naldo guy, he’s definitely leaving.
July 4, 2009 at 20:20
I really don’t believe the Naldo story…
July 4, 2009 at 20:21
Nor do I…
July 4, 2009 at 20:23
Me neither
July 4, 2009 at 20:23
July 4, 2009 at 20:25
I do believe the Ribery one though
July 4, 2009 at 20:26
So do I..
July 4, 2009 at 20:27
And we are goin to sign benzema too. Him goin to Real madrid is all part of our cunning plan…
July 4, 2009 at 20:27
Yes, it is a masterstroke, actually signing him is just what they would be expecting us to do …. FOOLS!
July 4, 2009 at 20:29
Yes, we have em right where we want em…I almost feel sorry for them, almost! Mwooo haaahaaahaaahaaahaaahaa!!!!
July 4, 2009 at 20:31
The only problem is, where will we play Benzema? we will have a selection headache, what with Torres, Villa, Aguero, Owen, and Tevez all coming
July 4, 2009 at 20:35
Well, with Kaka supplying the ammo to our front 5, we wont need a midfield. Yep, it’ll be the old 4-1-5 formation for us next season…
July 4, 2009 at 20:35
I hope Ribery won’t be too disapointed being a bench warmer…
July 4, 2009 at 20:38
We’ll just have to adopt a tough stance with him.
July 4, 2009 at 20:41
Exactly Pedro. I think it is going to be difficult for him to get his dream move to The Moon FC..
I was being factitious regarding Chelsea but maybe I mean Angie-Lottie like him furthermore I remember that rotten egg called his agent said that a Big team were about to launch a bid. Well, we are all patiently waiting. His possible replacement Chamakh who according to Bordeaux coach Laurunt Blank needs the player future resolved by 23rd of this month so they better pull their finger out otherwise his staying.
July 4, 2009 at 20:46
The Moon FC’s stadium is soooo shite though. Absolutely no effin atmosphere…
July 4, 2009 at 20:47
And the game aint much better there. When ever the goalie kicks the ball, it takes 5 minutes to come back down again…
July 4, 2009 at 20:48
A player went up for a header at a corner last season, and he hasnt been seen since…
July 4, 2009 at 20:55
At least Ade will be used to hitting clangers
July 4, 2009 at 21:00
i just dont know its alot of money plus eboue,for start with were right back cover thats proven,how would link into the team would he be mentor type player for delinson/song to learn from,can he command the midfield with athurity,will he carming influence in midfield were talking about 15mill at least plus eboue, for this type of deal he bettr be top top top quality
July 4, 2009 at 21:01
A1A, thanks for replying hours after i commented. It isnt a case of wanting either Toure or Eboue at right back.
I dont even remember what we were discussing at the time but i think i was saying Eboue isnt a right back anymore. He isnt, simple as that. He doesnt play right back for us, hasnt done so since the 05-06 season. Ergo he isnt a right back. He is a now a midfielder because he plays in midfield.
How hard is that to understand?
July 4, 2009 at 21:02
Rest assured that we will not part with that kind of money, if he isn’t top quality
July 4, 2009 at 21:02
Eboue played left bacj and right back last season.
You arent very observant Stu, me old china!
July 4, 2009 at 21:04
I dunno stu – i think if sagna was injured for a sustained period of time then eboue would be the man to step in at right back, but he’s just played in midfield becauuse sagna is there.
July 4, 2009 at 21:04
If we signed melo, then I doubt it’d be for anything like the 25m Euros quoted.
July 4, 2009 at 21:05
Yeah Eboue played at fullback to cover Sagna last season.
July 4, 2009 at 21:05
lol ManG…Ade ain’t got many options. So the sooner he bucks-up his ideas the better for all concerned..
July 4, 2009 at 21:06
Yeah I agree Mang – I’d imagine it’d be something like 8 mil plus eboue if he was included, we wouldn’t break our transfer record for someone like melo
July 4, 2009 at 21:07
Fuckin’ typical, I get Pedro to put my plea for some players for a fans tournament to come and help represent The Arsenal and there are 27 posts on the same day and then we might actually sign someone, so my stuff ends up covered in cod batter, chip cratnings and vinegar!
July 4, 2009 at 21:08
when/what do you need players for zorro?
July 4, 2009 at 21:08
I would put it higher than that A, because you couldn’t really call that anywhere near the release clause
July 4, 2009 at 21:09
Anyone who is interested, please see the previous post for details on the tournament, it is in 3 weeks time, in Leeds and is a good craic, football, beer, birds and The Arsenal! What more could any man ask for?
Evenin’ all, by the way.
Been out of the loop today, so have we actually signed Melo and binned EE or is it all smoke and mirrors?
July 4, 2009 at 21:10
No Zorro, we made an offer for him, and Fiorentina said that they want us to throw EE in, that’s as far as we know
July 4, 2009 at 21:10
A, I have run an Arsenal fans team for the last 12 years and we play a 11 a side tournament in Leeds every July. We have a vets team and a younger team this year, so I am trying to see if anyone is interested in coming up. We have a proper laugh over the Sat and Sunday.
July 4, 2009 at 21:11
A few puffs of smoke and a small vanity mirror, so far Zorro.
July 4, 2009 at 21:11
Cheers Bill, I take it AW has got Eboue on Fizsman’s jet as we speak then. lol.
July 4, 2009 at 21:11
Well I’d be quantifying that as Eboue worth 6 mil – I really can’t see us spending any more than £14 mil on Melo, it isn’t about the release fee, it’s just what we’re willing to spend. Unless I’m wrong and Wenger sees him as a world-beater, but i’m doubtful. Still think he’ll end up at Juve
July 4, 2009 at 21:12
How about if we sold Silvestre out to France and gave Eboue in part exchange for Melo. By the way bad news on the Adey-barndoor front, he does’nt want to go he wants to stick out till his contract expires, lets hope he does better next time. Naldo looks to have quite alot of truth behind it, for 8mil excellant. No news on the Botelho front is there lads?????????????
July 4, 2009 at 21:12
If this goes ahead:
Almunia (Fabianski)
Sagna-Toure-Vermaelen-Clichy (Gallas, Song, Gibbs)
Melo-Fabregas (Denilson, Diaby)
Walcott-Arshavin-Nasri (Wilshere, Rosicky, Vela)
Van Persie (Adebayor, Eduardo, Bendtner)
That has got to the be the strongest squad we’ve had since the invincibles by an effing mile. If Wenger goes out and buys a cheap but solid Right Back, I would be a very happy chap.
July 4, 2009 at 21:13
What about Song he can play at right back as well you know, A
July 4, 2009 at 21:13
I think its more to do with Fiorentina trying to force Juve into firming up their interest.
But, in football, you never know…
July 4, 2009 at 21:13
I really wasnt impressed with Melo in the confederations cup. He looked slow, lazy, clumsy and apparently has a shit attitude. Gilberto showed him up!
We need flam back.
July 4, 2009 at 21:14
Yeah but Wenger may not see it as spending 14M, considering some of the fee would be in the form of Eboue. i would estimate maybe 12M plus Eboue.
Of course i have no idea, but that’s my speculation
July 4, 2009 at 21:15
FFS Pedro, you have put it down as a 5’s tournament!
That’s for girls mate, we play full on full contact 11 a side mans football!
Perhaps in tomorrow’s post you could mention it again and correct the error???????
July 4, 2009 at 21:16
Ah ok Zorro, sounds like a goodun, might have to put my name forward if you need players, what sort of standard is it?
July 4, 2009 at 21:16
Song can definately NOT play right back. He has played there once and was god awful. So bad in fact he was taken off at HT.
July 4, 2009 at 21:17
I dunno Bill – If we wanted to sell Eboue we could get 6-8 mil, and I really can’t see Wenger rating him less than that. If he wanted rid of Eboue he could get 6-8 mil and spend 20 mil rather than melo for 12 and eboue…. Though maybe wenger rated him as a 20 mil player?!
July 4, 2009 at 21:18
I’ve corrected it Zorro!
I didn’t mention how many players on the team!
Jeez… I give you a bit of prime time advertising space on the busiest day of the year and this is how you repay me… with FFS’s!
July 4, 2009 at 21:19
Seems a bit steep that price there HB.
July 4, 2009 at 21:19
A, it varies from ok Saturday/Sunday parks team to the higher divisions of the same standard. The vets one should be fairly good as it is all about playing the game the right way, i.e. on the floor passing game as we are all too old to run about too much. Me excepted of course!
July 4, 2009 at 21:21
A, I dunno if i’d value him that hight really, i’d say around 5. Obviously Fiorentina won’t take his full value in to account knowing that we need Melo.
July 4, 2009 at 21:21
Pedro, sincere apologies buddy, mucho apoligetico in your lingo! Many thanks for the plug, just was worried it would get lost in all the excitement of getting rid of EE.
A, see here
http://le-grove.co.uk/5-aside/#comment-323044
July 4, 2009 at 21:22
*high
July 4, 2009 at 21:24
Zorr0, i would love to put my name forward and show ye how its done but unfortunately i cant….being in a different country and all. Sorry…
July 4, 2009 at 21:25
haha, I was only messing Zorro.
I’ll leave the advert up for a week or so. There is a comment on the page as well… make sure you check there over the week.
July 4, 2009 at 21:25
Ah ok, cheers zorro. See your email address is there, may well give you an email tomorrow – got a buggered leg and have a physio appointment to see what the score with it is, if i’ll be fit by then i’m well up for it, closest I’d ever get to representing arsenal in real life!
July 4, 2009 at 21:28
Cheers Pedro.
A, hope the physio passes you fit then!
A lot of people think it’s a bit sad, but we all love playing other teams wearing the red and white and have a great team spirit. There is nothing like beating some of our rivals too. We have played the scum many times and have never lost to them!!!
July 4, 2009 at 21:28
I would love to come and play, but I don’t wanna…
July 4, 2009 at 21:28
How many teams turn up Zorro?
July 4, 2009 at 21:29
Stu, feeble excuse, we have guys coming from Nigeria, Sweden, America and Barbados to play!
Just kidding about the feeble excuse bit! Not them flying in to play, that’s true!
July 4, 2009 at 21:29
Dont want to embarrass yourself MG.
July 4, 2009 at 21:34
64 teams in the main tournament and 16 in the vets.
July 4, 2009 at 21:37
Stu;
I am a finely honed athlete, with a stunning muscular, yet agile body… Trouble is, I am completely shite at football!
July 4, 2009 at 21:38
lol MG, i believe you aswell.
July 4, 2009 at 21:42
I am only half joking there…
July 4, 2009 at 21:43
Which half is the true half.
July 4, 2009 at 21:44
Im a brilliant footballer really…
July 4, 2009 at 21:46
I thought so…
July 4, 2009 at 21:51
MG, if you were shite, it would only be because you live in mancland!
July 4, 2009 at 21:55
Dunno why people are questioning whether Melo’s good enough. If Wenger wants him who are we to argue?
On a side note: Woooooooooooooooooohooooooooooooooooo!
*Jumps and clicks heals*
July 4, 2009 at 21:55
I think at right back next season we could see Gavin Hoyte switched there, just the way Gibbs was given a chance this season.
July 4, 2009 at 21:57
TA;
Top post there fella!
Zorro;
Hahaha! True dat bruvver!
Gunna H;
Im was gonna say that!
July 4, 2009 at 21:58
I’d expect Coquelin or Lansbury to be given a chance there rather than Hoyte Gunna, though you never know. Hoyte looked shocking in the reserve games he played that I saw, and they really didn’t rate him at Watford, but then again Norwich really didn’t rate Gibbs either!
July 4, 2009 at 21:59
What about Eastmond? If he is as shit as some say then why did he get a contract unless Wenger plans on using him.
July 4, 2009 at 22:00
If he does plan to use him it won’t be this season Stu. Wenger obviously thinks he COULD be a decent right back, but he’s nowhere near the first team at the moment, reserve team is the highest he’ll be aiming for this season
July 4, 2009 at 22:01
I think Lansbury’s goin on loan again tho. Gav Hoyte might get a chance, let’s see what he can do I say.
July 4, 2009 at 22:02
But i thought he was the reserve right back already? Surely the next step is CC.
July 4, 2009 at 22:03
I thinki of our entire youth team, the full backs were the weak links, IMO. But as with Gibbs, they may surprise us and hopefully, it’ll be the RB who does!
July 4, 2009 at 22:04
He only came into the reserves towards the end of the season, played the last 5/6 games, i reckon a full season in the reserves would be his next port of call, I don’t see him being ready for league cup just yet. Maybe go on loan to a league 1/2 club in jan or something. I forgot about Gilbert, is he still on the books??
July 4, 2009 at 22:05
Apparantly he is gonna ne sold…. Read it somewhere, may be b*llocks?
July 4, 2009 at 22:06
Yeah A, just about. Young guns had an article recently suggesting he is on his way.
http://arsenalyouth.wordpress.com/2009/07/02/nordtveit-plays-90-in-thriller-gilbert-to-be-sold/
July 4, 2009 at 22:07
wouldn’t be surprised Mang, maybe leicester will buy him permanently, or was it milwall he was at?
July 4, 2009 at 22:07
Eastmond will get a chance in the ressies, just like Rodgers did, but i would be surprised if either he or Cruise makes the grade with us. Bartley and Ayling on the other hand……
Don’t forget that Gibbs went to Norwich as a left wing/mid.
July 4, 2009 at 22:08
*not young guns. Rather arsenal youht.
July 4, 2009 at 22:08
A, you don’t live in Tufnell Park do you?
July 4, 2009 at 22:08
Cheers for that Stu, I forgot about his attitude problems, for Leicester at Peterborough this season he got in a fight with his teammate
July 4, 2009 at 22:10
Gilbert looked soooo good when he 1st appeared. Fittled in nicely and looked a real world beater…. Shame, but thats football…
July 4, 2009 at 22:10
Nah i don’t zorro, why’d you think that? I’m out of london, near bedford.
yeah i remember gibbs going there as a left mid, them playing him at left back and saying he’s shit, then people saying it’s just because he’s being played out of position! Weird how things change
July 4, 2009 at 22:11
Gilbert’s about twenty now. I reckon, if he was gonna be a first team player it would have started when he had that little run a couple of years back.
July 4, 2009 at 22:12
A, just wondered, thought you might have been someone I know outside of cyberspace, lol.
July 4, 2009 at 22:13
Gilbert is actually 22. I think he is too old to be a reserve now. So its likely he will either be sold, or Wenger will try curb his attitude problems and have him as back uo right back. Im leaning towards selling him tho.
July 4, 2009 at 22:17
Stu – That’s what I mean: If he was gonna be back up he would have been kept at the club, rather than loaned out for the last two seasons. Especially as Wenger avoids using Eboue as back up RB
July 4, 2009 at 22:18
Yep I can vouch for that… I saw Gibbs play a couple of times for Norwich.. he was playing in left sided midfield role and was average to poor and I didn’t ever think that he would make the grade for Arsenal but it just goes to show what confidence can do to a young players game and imo he is the most improved player for Arsenal during the past season… quite remarkable!!
July 4, 2009 at 22:21
I would keep Gilbert just because he is english, came from the academy and wouldnt demand to start. We dont have enough of those imo. Plus being english that is a bonus….but thats not a good reason to have someone…just because of where they are from.
July 4, 2009 at 22:22
Oops, i cited his nationality twice there. Really should read what i type. But ye get my point.
July 4, 2009 at 22:23
I hope I’m wrong, but I don’t think Gilbert will be at the cluhb next season. Would be nice to have a player in-house who is old enought o be considered now, instead of in 2-3 years time. Thats why I want Hoyte to get a chance too.
July 4, 2009 at 22:24
Stu;
Its alright mate, we dont read your posts either….
July 4, 2009 at 22:25
How do you know what i said so?
July 4, 2009 at 22:26
MG, lol
July 4, 2009 at 22:26
Who was the Palace right back which we were interested in signing Clyne or a similar name to that.. it’s another area where we obviously need to strengthen!
July 4, 2009 at 22:26
Erm… I did take a quick peak at that last one, oh and the one Im replying to now…Oh shit!
July 4, 2009 at 22:26
ManGoonian- He might be old enough, but I’m not sure he’s good enough.
July 4, 2009 at 22:26
Exactly!
July 4, 2009 at 22:28
Davide Santon would be nice.
July 4, 2009 at 22:28
The Inter youht? No way we would get him. They need Italians to meet the quota.
July 4, 2009 at 22:29
*youth.
I think Gilbert is good enough to sit on out bench. Not good enough to start, but he is certainly a decent back up if Sagna gets injured.
July 4, 2009 at 22:30
Thats the thing tho TA. Gav Hoyte may well surprise us and come good. Like Randall will become a massive player for us, along with Lansbury… I have seen the future… And it smells good…
July 4, 2009 at 22:30
Coquelin might make a RB in the Lauren style, but he is too good to not play at CM, IMO.
July 4, 2009 at 22:31
Randall….YUK!
July 4, 2009 at 22:32
Not sure about Randall. He looks like a hatchetman to me – a young Robbie Savage
July 4, 2009 at 22:33
Stu – you beat me to it
July 4, 2009 at 22:35
“Felipe is in love with Florence and its fans, but evidently the interest from a prestigious club like Juventus, who are battling for the Scudetto and Champions League, cannot leave him indifferent,” Melo’s agent Umberto Fusco confirmed.
“If the Bianconeri directors reach an agreement with Fiorentina, then he would be happy.”
Before or after the Fiorentina story?
July 4, 2009 at 22:36
Zorr0 – Agreed
July 4, 2009 at 22:36
if eboue goes we will be after nathan clyne of crystal palace as cover at right back. it was in a london paper at the start of the summer. the jorno who wrote it covers all london football and is well connected at the club. That is why i believe it will happen.
July 4, 2009 at 22:37
Randall?! No thanks, hope he gets sold this summer, though i fear he’ll be retained and loaned again
Those were before the story on the website Pedro
July 4, 2009 at 22:38
I get the feeling that IF we do sign Melo he wont be here long. He had already had more than a handful of clubs and is still relatively young. I wouldnt want us spending so much money on someone who would want another challenge in 2 seasons or so.
July 4, 2009 at 22:39
In 2 years he’ll be behind Ramsey and Coquelin in the pecking order anyways Stu!
July 4, 2009 at 22:39
He has’t played for Arsenal though
July 4, 2009 at 22:40
What about Denilsong and Diaby A?
TA, who hasnt played for arsenal?
July 4, 2009 at 22:41
Ahh, well, when Randall comes good and you are all eating humble pie, with lashings of egg on your faces, dont come crying to old ManGo! Coz, I won’t be there, I’ll be laughing, laughin I tells ya… all the way to Tesco’s….
July 4, 2009 at 22:41
I mean Melo – Hasn’t settled, but he hasn’t played for a club of our prestige
July 4, 2009 at 22:42
I dont like Pie MG so dont worry about that.
Plus, im not doubting his ability. I just hate him. I dont have a specific reason, ye should all already know this. I just hate Mark Randall!!
July 4, 2009 at 22:43
Randall will go out on loan to a Championship side, have a very good season and come back and force his way into the team. He is the new Flamini…. But better, with nicer hair… I have seen the future and I am not drunk…
July 4, 2009 at 22:44
Oh right. Even still tho….he hasnt been playing for all shite clubs tho. Almeria finshed 8th or something. Fiorentina just finshed 4th….and i dont know who else he has been with si i cant say.
July 4, 2009 at 22:44
…much
July 4, 2009 at 22:45
Don’t care if he makes it Mang, unless he sorts his attitude out, and isn’t a complete fuckhead anymore even if he had the talent of messi i wouldn’t want him near the club! If he sorts out the being a total nobber then fair dos i’ll support him, but i doubt it’ll happen
July 4, 2009 at 22:46
A; You are wrong there mate. Randall is a reformed character, he helps likkle old lady acroos the road, carries his mum’s shopping and does a lot of work for charridee, but doesnt like to talk about it…
July 4, 2009 at 22:47
Adebayor does work for charity – It doesn’t mean he’s got a good character
July 4, 2009 at 22:48
Nicer hair? Are you having a fooking larf?
He is a grease pit. His hair looks like it has been poured onto his head and the oil are running down over his face. I want to smack his face but am afraid of what will latch onto my hand!
http://www.arsenal.com/news/news-archive/tv-online-randall-my-perfect-footballer
Just look at the fugly fac!
July 4, 2009 at 22:48
A… even if he had the talent of messi?
I know he has a bit of a wide boy side parting… but the hatred he receives on here is out of order!
He can’t help having a punchable face!
July 4, 2009 at 22:49
Well, we have Ade at the club and he’s a right tosser, apparantly. So there’s plenty of room for Randall then….
All is well, more tea vicar?
July 4, 2009 at 22:49
Tony… his girlfriend was called Charity and he beat her up…!
July 4, 2009 at 22:50
MG, i cannot see Randall making it!
July 4, 2009 at 22:50
Pedro;
Yeah, the hatred of Randall is a disgrace and, yep, you’ve guessed it, a sad indictment of today’s throwaway society…
July 4, 2009 at 22:50
Pedro – classy!
July 4, 2009 at 22:51
zorro;
Thats coz you dont have the gift of second sight likes what I does….
Feel the force, feel it…on course… G Force!
July 4, 2009 at 22:51
In my defence ye all knew i already hated Randall so there is no bandwagon jumping on my belalf.
And he is the only reserve/youht i dislike. So its not like i have a history of hating players……
July 4, 2009 at 22:53
*youth, DAMN IT!
July 4, 2009 at 22:54
Re the Melo saga.. 21 mil to me seems like an awful lot of wonga to throw at an unglamorous position and what if he doesn’t have the same retail value after a season… the player was relately unaffective in the Brazil vs South Africia game in which a very good Alves goal won the game otherwise Brazil could have easily lost that one because Melo was not physically bossing the midfield in that game! Good player but would we really make him our record signing even with Eboue involved in the deal the price is pretty steep! Juventus could also come in for him now that the news is out so I won’t hold any breath on this one… and I’m sorry if I’m bursting anyone’s bubble but the deal ain’t a done one!
July 4, 2009 at 22:54
You have a real problem with the youth there Stu…
You need help fella!
July 4, 2009 at 22:55
Pedro it’s his behaviour in reserve games that has lead to people’s opinions on him, which is an absolute disgrace, the way he comes across on the pitch is as a bigger prick than bowyer
July 4, 2009 at 22:55
I fucking hate Randall,always have. I really don’t know why. Maybe b/c everytime I have seen him he’s been very, very ordinary or just horrible.
July 4, 2009 at 22:56
We aint singing Melo, for £121m, not a chance. He aint worth it and for that amount we could get any number of DM’s… Nicky Butt immediately springs to mind… And then of course, there’s NIcky Butt as well, and not forgetting Nicky Butt…
July 4, 2009 at 22:56
I was thinking the same mang… he really polarizes the opinion of Arsenal bloggers…
July 4, 2009 at 22:56
“You have a real problem with the youth there Stu…”
Whats that supposed to mean like? As i said i only hate him……. FACT!
July 4, 2009 at 22:57
Did I mention Nicky Butt?
July 4, 2009 at 22:58
MG you gowl, you forgot Nicky Butt! Fuck sake!
July 4, 2009 at 22:58
Gowl… I don’t even know if I can yellow card that… is it abuse?
July 4, 2009 at 22:58
Stu;
Oh gawd, if I have to explain it, then it won’t be the hilariously brilliant joke it was before…
You can’t spell the word “youth” hence my rip roaringly uproarious comment that you have a real problem with the “youth”
Happy now????
July 4, 2009 at 22:59
No its not abuse. Yellow card for not knowing about other cultures slang!
July 4, 2009 at 22:59
Am I right in thinking Randall is a spurs fan, or was that a dream?
July 4, 2009 at 23:00
No im not happy. You completely ruined the joke!
July 4, 2009 at 23:00
Stu;
Oh yeah, almost forgot about him…
July 4, 2009 at 23:01
Im just gonna throw this name out there. Not sure if ye know about him , but for DM how about Nick Butt. I think thats his name . Not sure tho.
July 4, 2009 at 23:01
Haha… at least Joey ‘fookin stab you in the eye with a cigar’ Barton wasn’t mentioned… now that deserves a red imo!!
July 4, 2009 at 23:02
I heard that Randall eats babies and old ladies for breakfast… And he inveded Kuwait in 1990 as well as demolishing parts of Mexico when he turned himself into a tornado…
July 4, 2009 at 23:03
Stu;
What a fookin marvelous suggestion, dont think I have ever heard anyone bring his name up as a potential DM signing…
Great shout! You da man…
July 4, 2009 at 23:03
Wheres mike for Fook Sake!!!
July 4, 2009 at 23:04
I was walking down the street ast week. It was fucking roasting so i jot myself an ice cream cone with the only money i had. I didnt even get a lick when Randall jumped out and knoced it to the ground. They he pissed in one of my shoes, kicked a baby in the face and stabbed a puppy.
I wasnt in the least suprised by any of it.
July 4, 2009 at 23:06
AAARRRRRGGGGGGHHHHHH I AM DYING HERE!!!!!
My dog is farting like ….something that farts really badly. Im fucking suffocating. **cough**cough**cough**. My eyes are watering its so bad.
July 4, 2009 at 23:06
I heard Randall was the reason thierry left.
July 4, 2009 at 23:07
A sums it up nicely in my book.
July 4, 2009 at 23:08
Randall is the reason we win no trohies.
July 4, 2009 at 23:09
*trophies
July 4, 2009 at 23:09
Randall is the reason Pele’s got erectile disfunction
July 4, 2009 at 23:10
Mark Randall is responsible for global warming and world wide poverty.
July 4, 2009 at 23:10
Stu;
I am feelin for ya bruv!
You know all this swine flu malarkey?
Yep, you guessed it, Randall was at home messing with his Dexter’s laboratory chemistry set when he created the virus…
July 4, 2009 at 23:10
Mark Randall created Aids.
July 4, 2009 at 23:12
Randall was behind George Graham’s pilfering
July 4, 2009 at 23:12
can’t believe all this support for eboue look at chelskis first goal in the semi final his inability to close down malouda says it all.We have seen the best of Toure and should moneybags City want him good.IF Fiorentina want eboue we will have got rid of an absolute average player and agood servant and let someone else lose them for the ANC
July 4, 2009 at 23:14
Why are we talking about Randall again?
July 4, 2009 at 23:15
because he isn’t very good
July 4, 2009 at 23:15
You know whol kills Harry Potter in the last book?
You guessed it, Draco Randall!
July 4, 2009 at 23:17
Zorr0, that is lost in translation here. Never read a Harry Shitter book. Dont plan on it either. Killing him is a plus for Randall in my book.
July 4, 2009 at 23:18
Randall gave Rowling the idea of writing the potter books
July 4, 2009 at 23:19
lol Stu and TA
July 4, 2009 at 23:20
lol at stu he reads harry potter
July 4, 2009 at 23:22
Oh right, we playing favourites here are we Zorro?
Charming…
July 4, 2009 at 23:23
Wow, this 3rd post has sparked comment
July 4, 2009 at 23:25
MG, don’t take on so, you in the gang too!
Apart from your liking of Randall of course you big freak!
July 4, 2009 at 23:27
Phewww! Was getting worried there for a minute…
I make no apologies for my freaky Randall man love…
July 4, 2009 at 23:27
*Not Stu – Zorr0
July 4, 2009 at 23:28
Geoff
I think it is a good move, if it happens. The Arsenal need a brute, an enforcer, here is a chance to get one. We can debate the pros & cons of Melo as a player till next kickoff, but one thing is for sure, Le Gaffer is at least having a go @ filling in the pieces of the jig saw for glory.
July 4, 2009 at 23:30
I dont see Melo of a brute or enforcer.
The ammount of times he was brushed off the ball in the confed cup was embarrassing.
July 4, 2009 at 23:37
Yeah Stu.. I didn’t rate him much either but surely technically he’s pretty sound! Wenger must see some quality which we don’t albeit Denilson, Song, Diaby & Gilberto prob won’t do a good enuff job all season next season so we need something in there… not sure about the price tho.. Cana half the price and a captain so in my book better cos we need some more leaders battling on the pitch for us!
July 4, 2009 at 23:38
TA, had to read them to my kids, then take them to the films. By the time I had seen the first 5 I had to find out what happened, so read the last 2 books to find out.
I am not ashamed of my Harry Potter past!
July 4, 2009 at 23:38
stu
Red & yellow cards ishigh up in his CV. I’m sure he isn’t in the mood for that sort of stuff in a 3 group game plus knock out comp. But in a 38 game season, he can belt the shit out of some turd & then spread fear for the remainder of the season. It means that no one will touch Cesc, of the younger players, or else.
July 4, 2009 at 23:39
Surely we could get Flamini for 21 million or in a player + cash exchange!
Milan need a RB and Eboue is a good RB.
July 4, 2009 at 23:40
I have decided that Melo is crap and we are not going to sign him…
July 4, 2009 at 23:40
I was talking to Reggie about how I would love to have Peter Storey from 71 team as my DM now. Anyone else fancy a player from a past team? I would take Frank McLintock in a heartbeat!
July 4, 2009 at 23:41
You blokes can debate this one for ever. Chewing over prices compared to other options, etc. But then turn round & abuse Wenger coz he won’t spend. What the fuck do you really want?
July 4, 2009 at 23:41
I saw a comment the other day where someone said Cana’s no good because he can’t even get in France’s first team. Considering he’s Albanian it would be difficult
July 4, 2009 at 23:42
Melo LOOKS better than Cana and he’s also playing in a stronger league. much, much harder to play CDM in Italy than in England or France, just ask Flamini
July 4, 2009 at 23:43
Isnt his record something like 17 yellows and 3 reds, and that was just last season.
Cards doesnt mae someone a hardman, it just means they are a shite tackler. Or going on his confed cup game he probably runs his mouth quite a bit.
I’d rather Cana everytime. Still tho…if Melo signs i will support him
July 4, 2009 at 23:44
Cana is good. Anyone who can shut down CR is good, but we should also consider CR is shit for Portugal. That game ended in a 0-0 draw if I remember correctly.
July 4, 2009 at 23:44
Zorr0 – Whatever floats your boat, eh?
July 4, 2009 at 23:45
LOL TA, who said that!
July 4, 2009 at 23:46
Lets face it, most want Cana based on a stupid youtube vid. I have my doubts with him.
Personally, I’d love to sign Matuidi(#1 choice) or M’Bia.
Probelm with M’Bia is that he’d be going to the ACN.
July 4, 2009 at 23:46
I think it was a comment on a youtube video
July 4, 2009 at 23:47
Eeeee Oooooop Gnarley you Mo’fudda!
July 4, 2009 at 23:47
Whos to say Italy is a better league tho? Italy has dropped a few levels in the last few years.
Not saying Frances one is brilliant all of a sudden but last season it was pretty competitive and Marseille came close to winning it.
July 4, 2009 at 23:47
In reality, having played football where you tackle, or get tackled; get the shit belted out of you, or belt the shit out of them, football/soccer has no hard men. Its a gameplayed by fuck’n blouses who fall to the ground if someone looks @ them the wrong way. But compared to the rest of the wimps who play, he’s a hard man.
July 4, 2009 at 23:47
I think Iv’e just proved your point pat
July 4, 2009 at 23:48
I really think Matuidi would be a beast for us and the news that he wants out really excites me.
Imo we don’t necessarily need a brute. We need someone who is willing to run their ass off. Matuidi gives us that, along with being a pretty tough fucker
July 4, 2009 at 23:48
DDM
Megan has a Brasilian, I’m sure
July 4, 2009 at 23:48
TA; That was funny… He must really be pissed off about continually beingh overlooked by France and has to make do with turning out for Albania…
July 4, 2009 at 23:49
I thought M’Bia signed for Marseille. Someone said that on here today. Marseille also signed Lucho. So Cana is going on the cheap.
July 4, 2009 at 23:49
zorr0 – i’d take Rocky07 in a heartbeat!
July 4, 2009 at 23:49
MG – He’s looking to get promoted
July 4, 2009 at 23:51
Matuidi is about 5′9. Not ideal for the prem at all.
July 4, 2009 at 23:52
Stu, Italy is not better than the PL, but is better than Serie A no doubt.
Thats not the point. Playing CDM in Italy is fucking tough. Being a hardman/hardworker won’t cut it in Italy. You have to be very intelligent to be regarded a top CDM in Italy. Its probably one of the most important positions there. Actually, its the most important position for a team that likes to play possession.
July 4, 2009 at 23:52
I love The Arsenal, I don’t get joy oua watching Real, Barcalonely or any of those other diving shit clubs. Here is a chance to actually sign a DM, who obviously has a go if needed, & people still can’t make up their mind coz he may not be the right type. Fo fucks sake, it could be a signing, & move forward, a chance to see someone different.
Bloody hell, 12 months ago people couldn’t make up their mind whether Arswaxin would be any good for The Club, yet we now all love him as a player.
July 4, 2009 at 23:52
If Melo signs for us then i reckon Song will be a CB from this season onwards then there will be competition between melo denilson and Cesc for CM. none of them can play all the games, sign Melo up is what i say!
July 4, 2009 at 23:52
I would like personal verification please
July 4, 2009 at 23:54
DDM, good shout.
July 4, 2009 at 23:55
gg9;
Wow! You are full on today fella!
My opinion of melo is that, if we ARE seriously in for him, then he must be good, given the amounts bandied about. However, I just don’t think we really are in for him…
July 4, 2009 at 23:55
GG9 – I was an Arshavin doubter, I thought he wouldn’t have the stamina after seeing him play for russia, and then he run half the length of the pitch to score a late forth against liverpool
July 4, 2009 at 23:59
The signing or attempted signing of Melo so obviously states that Song is to drop back to CB (as AW sees him as a CB in the long term) and that Denilson is not there as a defensive midfielder at the moment, this ’signing’ might be the making of Denilson, because he will finally have someone to learn the art of midfield defending from!
July 5, 2009 at 00:00
Ok I going to calm down. People, get your arses along to THOF (as BR lovingly refers to it) I can’t. This year will be a PL winning year. It’s coming. So lift your spirits. Its all good. You are going to be able to stick it up all those shitty mates who follow other clubs, & who have given you shit about the love of your life, over the past 4 years. No not your wives, girlfriends, or boyfriends
Any way lift, & Mangoonian, aka Lovedup Loner aka Angry Loner, now is the time to stand @ that bar in Manchester stick the chest out & say to all those mancs who drink there. “Hey fellas here I am,anyone want to talk football?” 
July 5, 2009 at 00:02
Nah I was 100% sure on Arshavin after last summer’s Euro tournament… true DM is a position which we need to get spot on.. but the Prem ain’t Serie A and based on the most successful players like Viera & Makelele imo we need someone who will cover the pitch and play the simple passes well.. intercept or tackle, a real athletic type and a winner but such players which have all these attributes are fookin hard to find… dunno whether Melo or Cana will fit the bill but we have to trust Wenger’s judgement.. besides Rambo will step it up next season too if he isn’t loaned out first!
July 5, 2009 at 00:07
red
You are right there, but all those types are on Real’s radar, so they will pay all they want. Wenger can turn a melo, or Cana, or similar DM into a world class player. Put the cream on top, coz AW can do that. Cripes, its not like we are talking about a Moroniho type manager who needs to spend big to get success. Arsenal just needs a tweek or two, & then we will shine through.
July 5, 2009 at 00:07
GnarleyGoerge9;
Great uplifitng speech there fella! Brillaint!
July 5, 2009 at 00:09
Rambo wont be loaned out. Just like Wilshere wont be, just like Cesc and Walcott werent. Wenger doesnt lan out everyone. He keeps the extra special ones in house. Doesnt want another manager tainting their footballing minds.
July 5, 2009 at 00:10
Matuidi is 5′9, Flamini is 5′10.
19% of goals scored against us this season were outside the box. I don’t care how tall he is.
If he’s a hardworker he fits our system, it really is that simple.
The whole team needs to up their workrate. The same barca side who were shit 2 seasons ago won the treble this season. Why?
Pep made them work their asses off and anyone who didn’t got sent home early, even in practice(Eto’o for example)
July 5, 2009 at 00:11
Theo should get loaned out and play striker. He’s not a winger and never will be. I don’t even think he’ll be a decent striker.
July 5, 2009 at 00:12
4 years of shit that you have taken……..how good is it going to be when you let all those smart arse dicks have it when The Arsenal win the Cup. Those moments can be the sweetest. Watch all those shit heads run for cover when you walk through the door.
When all your Goons over there want to talk football in may next year, mancs, spuds, binnys, etc will all say its cricket season
But ofcourse no it won’t coz it will be World Cup season. 1998, 2002…….2010 maybe? We seem to do it like that.
July 5, 2009 at 00:13
Pat;
Thats the spirit!
I think Theo will be better suited to our new top secret formation, that only I know about
July 5, 2009 at 00:13
I too have me reservations about likkle Feo. But he does have that spark. He does have a bit of magic in him once in a while. He doesnt really have a proper position tho and until he finds it and some connsistency he wont fulfill his potential.
I hope he comes great.
July 5, 2009 at 00:14
Ive thought that too GG9! World Cup Year (forget 2006!) We are winning the league!
July 5, 2009 at 00:15
We sacrificed the league in 06 to go for the CL. Close but no cigar.
July 5, 2009 at 00:15
Well I wish Theo could be moulded quicker into a lightening fast out and out striker.. much like Henry’s previous role… and much patience with these players will be essential next season so we can only hope that these unearthed gemstones turn out to be a cluster of world class diamonds!
July 5, 2009 at 00:19
……..& stu, Melo may not be the hardest out there, but he will be that potential certain nutter that Le Gaffer has in his “locker”, and able to use if necessary. Who ever he picks up on game day will have that thought in the back of his mind. “If I go for the ball & try to be a smart arse, I might not get a chance to do a smart arse thing again for 3 months if this nutter explodes”.
Footnote: re the Eduardo tackle. Arsenal don’t get bitter, get better.
July 5, 2009 at 00:22
Ok all, its just past the midnight hour over there I see. I would say its a hot night, so get yourself a glass of your favourite poison & go out side, sit back, look @ the stars & dream about number 14 Title. It will be good for the soul.
July 5, 2009 at 00:23
Oh 2, Oh 2 be, Oh 2 be a……Goona!!
July 5, 2009 at 00:24
I had far too much ‘poison’ last night/this morning GG9, thats why I am on here and not out on the town now!
July 5, 2009 at 00:24
Felipe Melo?
July 5, 2009 at 00:31
What was the question?
July 5, 2009 at 00:34
Laters Grovers, off to read Harry Potter and the Order of the Randall!
July 5, 2009 at 00:38
Hahaa! Nite fella!
July 5, 2009 at 01:18
[...] Melo for EBOUE deal about to happen! Apparently Arsenal are in for Melo… in exchange for Eboue. Click here if you are Italian. Read on if you’re [...] [...]
July 5, 2009 at 02:11
eboue for melo ..
id bite there fuckin hands off … !
sounds too good to be true alright …
next i suppose we will swap ade for benzema !
July 5, 2009 at 02:40
zorro
id keep stuff like that to yourself
July 5, 2009 at 03:05
great post melo is a baller. 520spot.com Arsenal dynasty continues
July 5, 2009 at 04:01
My mate at the club tells me that Melo is proper Pony and that we are in fierce negotiationisms with Dem Fullumstionisationalismisationalists for teh Hang ger landzzz
lollz
nice one irish!
well said Stu/Frank!
lollz
just kidding! lollz
but if you think we will win anything with denissongzz you are fooling yourselfs M8
well said Franchise
teh lollzzz
my mate at teh spurz just called me to say that every player ever at arsenal was/is/will be/ shit mate! we wont win anything with that,
you are a mug if you think we will
teh lollz
nice one pedro!
well said Irish!
July 5, 2009 at 05:02
Nice spaz out there AA. What the fuck was that all about?
Anywho, just watched transformers 2 there. Great film. Lots of explosions etc.
I tell ye tho…there is a pretty good looking one in it. Not sure if ye have heard of her….Megan Fox or something like that, One to watch no doubt….privately or otherwise.
Night anyway….or should that be mrning…coz its fucking bright already!
July 5, 2009 at 06:44
Melo’s agent has said there aren’t any on going talks with any club so why did Fiorentina post that news on their official club website? It’s strange for a club to post something like that. Maybe they wanted to assure their fans that they ain’t selling to Juve, a rival team. Looks pretty strange that they are saying they want Eboue, on their website without conducting actual talks with the club. Its like they are trying to use a website to conduct the transfer.
The other point is, if the player actually wants to leave, why did he sign a contract extension? Here is a player who was rated at around 12-14M maximum a few weeks back and all of a sudden, he’s worth 25M. I think Fiorentina can’t believe there luck and are trying to push the player onto us even though he himself doesn’t really want to go. Melo has never said he wants to move.
With Toure leaving and us having no rightback cover, I’d rather we keep Eboue and look elsewhere. I’d take Veloso or Inler anyday over another average Brazilian. Remember how Baptista turned out to be? Melo is no different. He’s like Denilson with a bit more muscle.
July 5, 2009 at 06:53
AA23
after you said what you said about ade yesterday
i was a little worried about you …
today you have confirmed it …
July 5, 2009 at 06:58
OGC, what makes you so sure that Toure is leaving? There is nothing to suggest he is off. Apart from a few reports in january that he was unhappy.
Also, Fiorentina probably offered a new contract so they could up the buy out price. And Melo obliged to either get money for extending or to get Fiorentina more money and his agent a larger fee from the sale.
July 5, 2009 at 07:08
I believe Toure will leave coz it’s a worldcup year and I can’t see either one of Toure, Gallas or Vermalen wanting to sit on the bench. Why would Vermalen for example come here to sit on the bench when he was the captain of Ajax? I don’t think his wage will be much bigger now so he must have been offered first team football. Either way we can only accomodate 2 centerbacks and in Djourou and Song, Arsene must think there is enough cover.
July 5, 2009 at 08:09
bloody hell AA23, comment of the day…or year
July 5, 2009 at 08:14
belgium have quite a good group coming through don’t they..
hazard
vermaelen
axel witsel
defour
fellaini
July 5, 2009 at 08:16
Aa23 did you say that we are in fierce negotiations with Fulham for hangerland…
somehow i don’t believe you…..
July 5, 2009 at 08:16
sunday mirror says milan have offered 20m + flamster for adebayor.
July 5, 2009 at 08:23
i would take that but i know many people on here ahve a problem with flamini coming back..
July 5, 2009 at 08:32
so then they valued 5mn for flamster or do they rate ade tooooooooo high
July 5, 2009 at 08:51
I’d bite their fucking hand off, I don’t believe it though too good to be true!
July 5, 2009 at 08:54
y there nobody around here when only 7-8 mins left for new post
July 5, 2009 at 08:55
Morning all!
Geoff, how we rolling with the post this morning?
July 5, 2009 at 08:58
It’s the guest post is it not, I’ll do it now.
July 5, 2009 at 09:00
are we really going to get melo AND flamini?/ seems unlikely but then again we could get rid of ade and get 2 players with no expense on our part…
July 5, 2009 at 09:02
it will be either thing rohan… melo or flamster
July 5, 2009 at 09:02
Ok all, todays guest post is going up now!
July 5, 2009 at 09:03
or incase both arrive at arsenal then few might have to leave
July 5, 2009 at 09:42
selling adebayor to milan + flamini for 20mil
http://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/2009/07/05/ade-20m-milan-deal-115875-21495416/
seems like a good deal to me.
July 5, 2009 at 11:09
if reports about the eboue and melo swap, together with the adebayor and flamini swap is true, i would be happy for these 2 deals to go through.
Melo and Flamini in the middle of the park that will be a awesome defensive shield for the back 4.
Regarding a replacement for adebayor, I believe we should get huntelaar instead or chamakh or what gomis. Hunteelar is a proven goal scorer, and he already has an ex team mate at arsenal – Vermaelen. Furthermore, together with RvP, they would form a lethal dutch strikeforce. This opportunity would be good for both RvP and huntelaar because the world cup is just round the corner. It is better for them to start linking up for a season before going for the world cup. Madrid is desperate to get rid of hunteelar now that they got benzema and ronaldo. Its time arsenal spent some money to get huntelaar if possible.
With Melo, Flamini, Hunteelar and Vermaelen, I would say that this summer is definitely one of the best. If possible, get Naldo as well, a 25 year old brazilian with experience and more importantly standing at 1.98m would definitely win us the high balls!!
Enough of denilson and Diaby. Song can play deputy to flamini and melo. Diaby can play as second striker as he showed he can do it. Furthermore diaby has a great shot in him. However, I would prefer if wenger stops giving chances to diaby, and sell him away. He has spent too many seasons without really fulfilling his promise. Denilson, can just play deputy for fabregas, since that was his role when he did not play in the DM role. Otherwise sell him away to other teams as well.
Without Eboue, who is going to play at right back?? Well let me answer that question. If gibbs can play deputy to clichy, I am sure gavin hoyte can fill in sagna’s shoes anytime. Gavin hoyte is quality, and fast, unlike his useless brother justin hoyte whom is pure shit and is not playing in the coca cola championship.
GK: Almunia, Fabianski
RB: Sagna, Hoyte
LB: Clichy, Gibbs
CB: Gallas, Vermaelen, Toure, Naldo, Djourou
LM: Nasri, Arshavin, Rosicky
RM: Walcott, Wilshere, Lansbury
AM: Fabregas, Ramsey, Merida
DM: Melo, Flamini, Song
Strikers: RvP, Huntelaar, Eduardo, Bendtner, Vela
That way, our squad would have 25 + 3 players (wilshere, lansbury and merida would be just learning most of the time).
Sell away, Adebayor, Eboue, Diaby, Denilson, Senderos and Silvestre.
My first 11 would then be (4-4-2)
Almunia
Sagna Vermaelen Gallas Clichy
Rosicky, Flamini, Fabregas, Arshavin
RvP/eduardo Hunteelar
(Res: Fabianski, Toure, Gibbs, Melo, Walcott, Nasri, Eduardo)
My first 11 would then be (4-3-3)
Almunia
Sagna Toure Gallas Clichy
Melo Flamini
Walcott Fabregas Arshavin
Bendtner/Hunteelar
July 5, 2009 at 15:07
just had a text from close associates to Jerome Anderson, Melo deal is on – the swap is agreeable to Arsenal, just need to agree the cash price – Arsenal are offering 12Meuros (£10m) plus Eboue – Viola want 15meuros (£13m. Re: Flamini – wenger doesnt want him back.
I reckon formation will be 4-4-2 with the first team as follows:
Almunia
Sagna – Toure – Vermallen – Clichy
Arshavin – Melo – Fabregas – Nasri
RVP – Walcott
Walcott and Arshavin – switching positions throughout the game – very much a Rooney/Ronaldo type roles at Man Ure.
Rosicky wont feature till around November.
July 5, 2009 at 15:40
Its all coming roses for Arsenal. Lets see how this will translate in the regular season. Bobby Gee
http://bobbygee.wordpress.com/