Arsenal: Two games to save title; Payet reacts to interest; Dortmund-ace linked

By Jake Jackman

Arsenal’s title chances have taken a severe hit over the past seven days and that has left former player Ray Parlour believing that they have two matches to save their season. It has been a damaging week for Arsenal as they have lost back-to-back matches, despite leading in both matches and that has left some questioning the character in the squad once again. This is a common criticism that Arsenal have faced in recent seasons and it has yet to be corrected.

“You have to be a little bit concerned by what happened in two games, it just shows you what a week can do in football. Sitting top of the league last week and then losing two games and all of a sudden you’re nine points behind. It has been a really bad week for Arsenal but you have to bounce back.”

Parlour is correct to point out the pace at which Arsenal’s season has changed. Last week, they were sitting at the top of the table for a short period and for that reason, it would be bizarre to become overly critical of the Gunners. They have a good side at the club and have the ability to battle for the title, but the recent blip has left them with considerable ground to make up. That said, title contenders bounce back from periods of adversity and it is crucial Arsenal do that in the coming weeks.

The transfer window is fast approaching and the Mail report that Dimitri Payet would love to play for Arsenal. It is unsurprising that the Frenchman would like to move to Arsenal as it would be a considerable step up for him. West Ham can’t match his ambitions and at the age of 29, he will want to play for a Champions League club sooner rather than later. He has been a revelation since moving to England, but it is now time to take that final step.

‘I read that Wenger considers me the missing piece of the Arsenal’s game, but he’s never told me that.”

‘We conceded five or six at home against them. When you see them playing, as a technical player, you could only have fun in that team. They’re candidates for the title every year.’

It would be a huge signing for the club if it did happen, but it seems to be little more than paper talk at this stage. They are already well stocked in midfield and would be better off spending their money on other areas of the pitch. Although Payet would be a great signing, he isn’t a priority and at the age of 29, he wouldn’t be a typical Arsenal signing.

Another possible transfer target for the Gunners is Borussia Dortmund attacker Marco Reus, who has once again been linked with a move, this time in the Telegraph. The report states that he has been identified as a possible replacement for Alexis Sanchez or Mesut Ozil if either leave the club in the summer. Although publicly Arsene Wenger has stated that both will remain until the end of their contracts regardless, this is unlikely and Arsenal will opt to replace them if a renewal isn’t agreed by the summer.

It is encouraging that Arsenal are already making contingent plans after some rushed transfer decisions in years gone by. Reus would be an excellent signing and provide the fans with real excitement, while cushioning the blow if one of their two star players leave the club. He would command a significant fee, but Arsenal have the resources to pay it. The one doubt about the German is his dodgy history with injuries, but the risks will be assessed by Arsenal before they make their move. This would be a great way to move on from Ozil and/or Sanchez if required.

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