Jermaine Pennant urges Arsenal to copy Liverpool in the transfer market

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Jermaine Pennant has told TalkSPORT (Thursday, 08:15am) that Arsenal need to copy Liverpool in the transfer market and bring in a big-name goalkeeper and defender – but explains why it will be difficult to do that.

The Gunners produced an excellent performance and defensive display to keep out Liverpool on Wednesday night, securing a 2-1 win and keeping any faint hopes of European football alive.

With Manchester City’s European ban being lifted, it looks unlikely that seventh and eight place will deliver Europa League football. That will affect finances at The Emirates, and could see a number of players depart.

Former Arsenal and Liverpool winger Pennant believes The Gunners need to mirror what Liverpool have recently done in the transfer window – in signing Virgil van Dijk and Alisson – but explains why that will be difficult.

“They need to rebuild. They need a defender and a goalkeeper,” Pennant said. “They need to do what Liverpool did and sign the likes of van Dijk and Alisson – but Liverpool only spent nearly £200million because they sold Coutinho. It is going to take a couple of seasons.”

TBR’s view – What do Arsenal need to get back into top four?

A centre-back. It goes without saying that the likes of Sokratis, David Luiz and Shkodran Mustafi are not good enough. The Gunners need a commanding leader at the back, like van Dijk, who is near flawless.

A tough midfielder. Granit Xhaka has improved since the restart and his tantrum against Crystal Palace. But signing Thomas Partey would be ideal. A replacement for Mesut Ozil should also be considered.