With the transfer window officially open every Arsenal fan will be eager to find out who else the club will be signing this summer, following Germany star Lukas Podolski’s recent arrival from Cologne. The latest reports suggest that Arsene Wenger is ready to make a move for Fulham’s ambitious American International Clint Dempsey. Fulham are desperate to hold onto one of their prized assets but if one of Europe’s elite clubs offer Dempsey the chance to play in the Champions League they will face a very difficult task persuading him to stay. It is also important to consider, the fact that Dempsey has only one year left on his current Fulham contract and Fulham will not want to risk losing a player of his quality on a free transfer next season. Therefore, in my opinion, there are two options on the cards for the talented playmaker: he will either extend his contract with Fulham or leave the club in search of pastures new in the very near future.
Who Is Interested In The Talented American And Why?
The American has been impressive form of late, scoring 17 goals in the Premier League over the course of the 2011/ 2012 season. He has been a consistent performer in the Barclay’s Premier League for the past few years now and he can boast 36 goals in his last two seasons for Fulham. His performances have alerted a whole host of other European clubs including: AC Milan, Liverpool and Manchester United. Moreover, Arsenal will therefore face strong competition from rival clubs if they wish to acquire the talented American’s services. The players versatility and work rate make him an interesting proposition for any club. He can play anywhere across the midfield or upfront and has grown from strength to strength at Fulham having emerged as one of the Premier Leagues star performers. In addition to this, with only one year remaining on his contract reports suggest that the 29 year would be available for a fee in the region of £7- £12million pounds although, Fulham are reluctant to sell the Yank.
Furthermore, the USA International had this to say on his future: “The transfer window is open until August 31 – it’s no secret that I would like to play Champions League one day in my career. What I do is focus on the teams that I play for and I give my heart to them, work as hard as I can to try to make the most of my time and make the most of the career that I have left”. In additional to this, USA International boss Jurgen Klinsmann has also backed the players strong desire to experience playing in the Champions League next season, after recently stating “If you play consistently at the highest level then offers will come in. I think everybody is aware of that. His goal is the right goal, we have often discussed it”. Such advice as this from a German legend who had tasted Champions League football as a player many times throughout his career will only further frustrate Fulham’s attempts to keep hold of arguably the West London clubs best player.
In my opinion, signing an in form, experienced and versatile player of Dempsey’s quality could only be viewed as a positive move for Arsenal F.C. He is a hardworking, determined footballer whose goal scoring prowess would benefit Arsenal greatly and ease the pressure off Robin Van Persie in the goals department further, if the Dutch International remains at Arsenal in the foreseeable future. Established Premier League players come at a premium but because of Dempsey’s contract situation he will be available for a very reasonable sum of money. Yet, it is important to consider the fact that the player is 29 and unproven at the highest level of European football. However, playing football next season alongside the likes of Alex Song, Podolski, Jack Wilshere and several others could improve the players performances greater still under the guidance of Arsene Wenger.
Please follow me on twitter @JasonBoyne94 for regular article updates and more!
Check out the video of the American star in action below:
Do You Think Arsene Wenger Should Make Clint Dempsey’s Dream A Reality?
Would You Love To See Dempsey In An Arsenal Shirt Next Season?
Feel free to comment below, all feedback is appreciated! I hope you enjoyed reading my article.
He may not have played much in Europe, but his international record is good, even against top teams.
Yes I completely agree with you but I have discussed in my article how he hasn’t played at top European club level although, I rate him highly and I feel that he could be a fantastic addition to Arsenal’s squad if he did join Arsenal this summer!
I will will like to see clint dempsey at Arsenal