Although far from being a glamour signing, James Milner appears to be one of the most sought after players going this summer. The Manchester City midfielder/striker/utility man appears set to leave the Etihad Stadium on a free transfer when his contract expires in a couple of months’ time, and Liverpool and Arsenal are keen.
The Reds have been mooted as favourites to land the 29-year-old, however, with Champions League football practically guaranteed at the Emirates Stadium for next season, north London may be a more tempting option for the experienced England international.
So, could getting Milner be Arsene Wenger’s most important summer transfer? We think so, and here are FIVE reasons why…
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Would add experience for title charge
Arsenal’s late surge this season played them right into contention for the Premier Legal title. However, an early run of poor results left them with more of a canyon than a gorge to bridge, which they ultimately failed to do.
The Gunners possess a wealth of amazing attacking talent in the shape of Alexis Sanchez, Mesut Ozil and Olivier Giroud, but very few of Arsene Wenger’s men have the experience of getting the job done in English football. Milner, though, has. The England international has lifted two Premier League titles in his time at Manchester City, and although he’s not been a vital figure in that spell, he’s surely picked up what it takes to get the job done.
Technically very good
Although hard work, willing running and a feisty edge are often the characteristics lauded in Milner, he’s actually a very good footballer in a technical respect. The 29-year-old is capable of scoring goals and contributing to precise passing around the edge of the area, which are two things asked of midfielders in a Wenger side.
As the free kick above shows, he’s more than just a battler!
Well-suited to a central midfield role
Injuries and other issues have forced Arsene Wenger to rotate his central midfield options. Right now, Santi Cazorla is often deployed in the middle of the park, which is far from being the Spaniard’s best role. Although talented, the former Villarreal man is better suited to the ‘No.10’ position, where he can thread neat passes without having get involved in the more physical side of the game.
Milner, however, is much more impressive in the engine room, where he combines his tireless running with tenacity. The Former Leeds man has long been a victim of his own versatility – he has played as a striker this season – but many Aston Villa fans will confirm that he was at his best when in the centre of midfield prior to his big money switch to the Etihad Stadium.
Bargain
A player of Milner’s quality and experience for free is quite the deal. Okay, wages of £125,000-per-week and a potentially significant signing on fee will be needed, but a midfielder of a similar mould would likely cost in excess of £15m in the transfer market. A big saving and a top-class performer…. no brainer.
Keep him from a rival
With Manchester City doing all they can to keep him and Liverpool also circling, there’s every chance that if Arsenal don’t push through a deal Milner will be an opponent next season. If he’s at the Etihad Stadium he could be a factor in a title race, while Brendan Rodgers’ side are likely to be battling for a top four finish, putting them in Arsenal’s crosshairs. Food for thought, Arsene.