Villarreal’s Diego Lopez in Arsenal sights
Owing to increasing speculation in the media, it has been reported that Arsenal are likely to launch a bid for the services of Villareal goalkeeper Diego Lopez, come the summer transfer window.
Arsene Wenger has been known to be a keen admirer of the keeper and would ideally love to have him play for Arsenal in their attempts to challenge for silverware on a consistent basis. With the shrewd Frenchman's sights set on the candidate, Villareal’s
resolve is bound to be tested if the ‘right’ offer is made.
However, Arsenal shouldn’t be too hasty in tabling an offer. Following the recent emergence of 20-year-old Wojciech Szczesny from the reserve ranks to the Gunners’ first team, things have gotten rather stable at the back. The youngster has displayed maturity
well over his age and seems to be growing stronger with every coming game. However, owing to Lopez’s credentials as being regarded as one of the best in Europe, the Gunners might as well swoop in considering their desperate need for silverware.
Arsenal scouts were spotted in the recent Villarreal game and continue to praise the 29-year-old Spaniard for his presence between the sticks. Not only was he impressive on one-on-one situations, the glovesman displayed strong leadership qualities and constantly
guided his back four. His decision making has been exemplary, which is saying something, as goalkeepers often bear the brunt of the blame whenever a side 'leakes' in the odd goal.
However, with all said and done, Villareal too would be rather reluctant to lose one of their most prized possessions. The Spaniard has been with the club for the past 4 seasons and it would be a big blow for the Yellow Submarines losing an experienced player
of Lopez’s calibre. The Spaniard joined Villarreal after emerging through the ranks at Real Madrid, where first team football was hard to come by with Iker Casillas already occupying top spot.
Coming back to the Arsenal picture, the Gunners might look for other non-financial incentives to rope in the shot-stopper. Villarreal finds itself in a league monopolized by the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid. The North Londoners and the Premier League
combination provides a tempting prospect that might enable Lopez to experience a more competitive environment with the possibility of challenging for top honours every coming season owing to Arsenal’s relatively sustainable stability.
However, with Edwin van der Sar planning to hang his gloves at the end of this season, Wenger might be in for yet another battle with Sir Alex Ferguson - All the more reasons for Lopez to consider his future.
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