The Arsenal transfer window is always rife with speculation,
gossip, and unfounded rumors. It makes
for Gooner torture as one day an exciting player is signing for the team;
within hours the deal is off, City have signed them, and Arsenal are back to
square one (Read: Yann M’Vila).
Well, one of the more persistent rumors surrounding this
summer window is Fulham and American star, Clint Dempsey. In the dying moments of last summer’s
transfer fiasco, it was rumored that Wenger bid for Dempsey—only to finally
settle on Mikel Arteta. Fast forward a
year and Arsenal have registered their interest once more.
The tough, 29 year-old, Texan had his best season in
2011-2012. In his sixth year at Craven
Cottage, Dempsey scored 23 goals in all competitions—including 17 in the
Premier League. The American forward was
asked to shoulder even more of the offensive burden than previously, especially
with the mid-season departure of Bobby Zamora.
He stepped up, and although Dempsey has played primarily on the wings in
earlier years, he was deployed in the “false-9” role for numerous games.
This position shift worked well for him, as his goal total
significantly increased—scoring a range of breakaway, poacher, and header
goals. The American proved to be a top-flight
forward in the Premier League and established himself as one of the most
underappreciated players in the game.
Whether it is the US citizen in me, I’m not sure. But, I am certain that if a Brazilian player
and not an American had scored 17 Premier League goals, a much bigger deal
would have been made of the season.
Still, that is pure speculation—as is the transfer
discussion. Wenger, though, has shown
interest in him before. And, with one
year left on his contract, it seems Arsenal are likely to come in for him again
this summer. Moreover, Dempsey has
professed a desire to make the leap to Champions League football.
Will that leap be to Arsenal this summer? I really don’t know. Wenger keeps his targets under tight wraps,
so you can never be sure. Also, the
uncertainty surrounding Van Persie only makes the situation less clear.
Still, Dempsey would be a fantastic fit for Arsenal. With a rumored fee of 7 million pounds, he
represents good value. I think the best
comparison to the Dempsey buy is Benayoun’s loan last summer. As with Benayoun, many Gooners have expressed
skepticism about Dempsey’s ability to slot into the squad. And, as with dear Yossi, Dempsey would win
over the fans.
Dempsey offers versatility similar to Beanyoun. He is comfortable on either wing, and can
also play in the CAM role. Moreover, he
can adequately lead the line—something he did many times this season. His work-rate is exceptional, and displays
fighting spirit in every game (once playing two matches with a broken
jaw). And, if some don’t believe he has
the necessary scoring touch to improve our midfield, please let me remind
you. http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tZR48Cnn9FU
I don’t know if Dempsey will happen. I also realize I am a little biased, and that
there are other good options out there (Wenger always finds them). Still, last season demonstrated the value of
adding mature professionals with proven Premier League experience. We also shouldn’t underplay the potential of someone
who is driven to take the next step (and prove they are the best ever U.S.
player).
Dempsey makes sense.
Some will disagree. Others will
know better.
Thanks for reading.
Excited to hear your thoughts—and abuse.
