Players we can (and should) get rid off

May 1, 2008 | 40 Comments

I am compiling a list of players we can sell this summer. Two simple criteria

1. Spent enough time at Arsenal and not proved themselves, but taking up a first team position, thereby giving a false sense of depth to the squad

2. Sale value which can be added to the transfer kitty so badly needed this summer.

Here is my list.

1. Hoyte: It seems crazy to keep a backup RB of his quality when we have so many others who can fill that position when required and do a better job than him. Being British, he would fetch a tidy sum. Villa need a RB when Mellberg leaves in the summer. 2M is quite possible.

2. Senderos: We need a new CB and someone has to go. It is a straight fight between him and Djourou. Sendy has got enough chances to prove himself and it is also likely that he can be a regular player at a lesser club. As much as I like him, I think we should cash in. 3M would not be too much if we sell him in England.

3. Gilberto: Of course, this is assuming Flamini stays. In which case, we could do without him. Being an experienced player, he would fetch a decent sum. Remember Ljunberg got us 3M, so Gilberto can too.

4. Diaby: What is his position in the team? I have no clue. Not DM, his defensive skills are poor, his work rate poorer. Not AM, we haven’t seen him there and won’t either with Cesc around. Winger? No way, we have seen enough of that. Just a good player but no position to play? Sell him to a French club for 2M.

That’s four players who can potentially earn 10M. Add to that, the reportedly 25M kitty available and we have enough to buy at least two TOP quality players. If spent prudently, we can even manage to buy 3 very good players – CB, winger and striker (which is what I think we need).

Posted by nipuna | Filed Under Mailbag