I knew right from the onset, this transfer period was gunner be the brightest in years, inspite of the fact that World Cup hostilities in South Africa have taken the centre stage. The possibility of Arsenal being linked with the best goalies/defenders and even midfielders and strikers currently making waves in their respective clubs and Leagues with regards to our stringent wage structure existed. And a vast majority of supporters were aware of the impact that could have on our spendings ahead of next season, given the rather unfortunate incident of Big Phil's departure to Craven Cottage and Mikael Sylvestre's unstable future at the Emirates, not to mention our want-away former captain Willie G, who is clearly fed up with life as a Gunner.
So, for those of you agitating for an end to this speculative madness, I'd implore you to imagine a scenario, whereby Arsene Wenger, Ivan Gazidis and Peter Hill-Wood have already completed their intended transfers, as promised earlier by the gaffer. And are taking a great deal of joy watching and betting on the next incessant and speculative transfer a media pen-freak might churn out?
Personally, I think Le boss is the most unpredictable coach in Europe, who takes joy and pride in doing what he does best - 'managing our meagre but somewhat profit generating resources' and also, discovering and snapping youngsters from around the globe, which in itself isn't a bad development especially for a club with a future so bright and promising as Arsenal.
It's pertinent to understand that Wenger and co. will definitely spend to bolster our frail defense, in the same vein I sincerely doubt our goal keeping department would be given preference this summer, maybe for the simple reason that Arsene still believes and hopes his youthful prospects will be able to fill the void created by Jens Lehmann's departure some seasons ago.
Back to transfer speculation business; Arsenal are said to be preparing an audacious €15m bid for much sought-after Lorient centre-back Laurent Koscielny, despite his owners reaffirming their intentions to keep him.
The President of the French outfit stated in unequivocal terms that he'll consider the possibility of selling his coveted asset, only if prospective buyers are willing to match their hefty valuation of the player.
Fery said: "We do not need to sell today. We are fortunate to be one of three clubs amongst the 40 sides in Ligue1 and Ligue2 to have positive (financial) results.
"We are also fortunate to have a fairly solid financial structure which allows us to consider not selling before next season.
"We believe that, to be consistent with our ambitions, we must be able to manage the transfer window. This does not mean that players who come to Lorient cannot go, but if a player has to leave, this must happen with positive conditions for the club, which still has some sporting ambitions.
"There was perhaps a time when we developed players and clubs and other intermediaries in France benefitted from this work by not paying a price equal to the quality of the player.
What we want is that if players have true quality, and they must leave Lorient, then they should for a good price."
However, today's edition of L' equipe has clearly refused to 'let the sleeping dog lie' as they are adamant Laurent Koscielny is closer to Arsenal than most of us think he is. L' equipe understands that, the Gunners have (allegedly) raised the stakes after an initial offer of €10m was rejected by Lorient's hierarchy.
The report expantiated that Lorient are demanding €15m for their man, but it's believed that both parties will find "common ground" at around €13m.
