Vermaelan In, Who's Next?

The following article was written by our guest writer, Jamie Wright, a professional sports writer.

Central Defence Strengthened, Now for the Central Midfield

During the Premier League last season it was obvious Arsenal were conceding far too many goals to challenge for the title. Scoring goals wasn’t an issue, but problems at the other end of the pitch meant it was a disappointing season finale. The Gunners scored the same amount as Chelsea and Manchester United but conceded 13 more than both their rivals.

The signing of centre back Thomas Vermaelen has come as no shock to Arsenal fans but is a great signal of intent from the Arsenal board and manager. They have recognised a problem and have hopefully rectified it by signing the full Belgium international.

At only £11million it seems to be another astute signing by Arsene Wenger. When you consider Glen Johnsons £18million move to Liverpool this week, it seems fair to suggest that Wenger is never going to pay over the odds for his players. Thus, he avoids putting the club in any financial difficulties.

Now the defence has been strengthened, it is time to add depth to another key area in the Arsenal first team - the central midfield role. With a long term injury to Cesc Fabregas last season, it was left to Alexander Song, Denilson and Samir Nasri to make this position their own.

Although they all had a reasonable season, it is fair to say the defence was exposed many times. Solid performers in past campaigns such as a Gilberto Silva, Mathieu Flamini or Patrick Vieira would have provided much more protection for the back four.

Denilson is shaping into a great defensive midfielder but when compared to Manchester United’s Michael Carrick, Chelsea’s Michael Essien and Liverpool’s Javier Mascherano he isn’t quite at their level. If Wenger is looking to spend more money this summer I believe it has to be in this area and finally replace the void left by Mathieu Flamini last summer.

A few names I’ve seen mentioned frequently on message boards are Marcos Senna, Yaya Toure and Jeremy Toulalan. Any one of these names would provide a platform for our creative and flair players such as Fabregas and Nasri to perform on and would add valuable experience to a young midfield.

If Arsenal are going to improve their chances in the Premier League next season, surely it’s the central midfield that needs some strengthening next? Give us some of your thoughts.