One of Mikel Arteta’s worst mistakes as Arsenal boss was his decision to sign Willian for free last summer.
The Brazilian was brought in from Chelsea on a three-year contract a few weeks after Cedric Soares was also signed on a free transfer, much to the anger of Arsenal supporters.
Cedric has done well at Arsenal, but Willian, despite his stunning free-kick against West Brom on Sunday, hasn’t done enough. His move is among the worst transfers the Gunners have made in recent years, but it looks like Arteta hasn’t learnt his lesson just yet.
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Arsenal begin talks to sign Southampton’s Ryan Bertrand
Bertrand was linked with a late move to Arsenal in January, but Southampton blocked it. The Saints were hoping to convince him to sign an extension, but Ralph Hasenhuttl confirmed that the Englishman has rejected all offers. (Daily Echo)
Goal have now revealed that Bertrand’s representatives have been approached by multiple clubs. The report claims that Arsenal, AC Milan and Monaco have already started talks over a free transfer this summer, while Manchester City are also said to have made contact.
With so many offers coming in, it is no surprise to see Bertrand considering his options. He is 31 already and a move this summer will likely be his last chance to make some good money before his time at the top level comes to an end.
The Insider’s View:
Arsenal are in desperate need of a backup left-back. Kieran Tierney is our undisputed number one, but the Scotsman’s injury history is a problem. Arteta has been forced to use Cedric, Bukayo Saka and Granit Xhaka there, which isn’t ideal.
A backup left-back is a priority but is Bertrand the right option? Don’t get us wrong, the Englishman is a quality player, but he is 31 already and he’s only looking for a big payday before he hangs his boots up.
If Arsenal have learnt anything from the Willian transfer, it is not to hand big contracts to ageing players. However, if the report is to be believed, Edu and Arteta have learnt absolutely nothing.
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