Deadline Day: Return of the Beast?
99 comments August 31st, 2006
When I say “return”, I don’t mean the return to Arsenal. He never came to Arsenal. I mean the return to the headlines of Arsenal-based blogs everywhere. And when I say “Beast”, I don’t mean a mythical animalistic terror, but Julio Baptista: the Real Madrid powerhouse.
It’s just over a year since Baptista turned us down in favour of Real, but with their President, Ramon Calderón, desperate to beat Athletico Madrid to the signature of Jose Reyes, he has reportedly offered Baptista plus around £2m in exchange for the Spain winger.
Some British reports say the deal could be an inital year’s loan for both players. Either way, I’d be happy: there’s no point keeping Reyes when his heart so clearly isn’t in it. Even if the Real deal doesn’t come off, I’d be content to see him join Athletico, whose £13m offer is still on the table. Happenability? A generous 8/10.
So what about the other possible leaving player, Ashley Cole? Well, for my money, a deal won’t happen. Personally, I’d love to see the back of him, but it seems that there is a genuine stalemate in negotiations. It’s weird, because surely Arsenal realise his value will only decrease? As he gets older and his contract runs down, Chelsea won’t be inclined to pay any more than they’re offering now. It’s also a shame because I would have absolutely loved to get William Gallas as part of the deal. As much as part of me suspects they might come in with a huge eleventh hour bid just to make sure we can’t spend it, I have to give this one a happenability of 3.
Next up, Carlitos Tevez and Javier Mascherano. Despite yesterday’s hysteria, I still find it hard to believe that we’ll be getting either of these two, especially considering the more-likely-to-happen Baptista can play in both of their positions. However, Tevez would be a more natural replacement for Reyes, as he can occasionally play wide, whilst Mascherano is certainly a tougher proposition defensively than Baptista. The Times reports that the two may join a Premiership club on loan, possibly Portsmouth. I have to say I believe it to be more likely that they’ll join us: how will Tevez get in ahead of Kanu??? This also makes a move to United a genuine possibility. Nice though it would be, a £30m outlay on these two just seems so unlikely. Happenability: 4.
Last but not least, Steven Naismith, who having been “wined and dined” by Arsene awaits the call. I feel, though, that he may have to wait another year – there’s no point bringing him in now when he’ll barely get a game. Happenability: 6.
One thing I can guarantee is, it’s going to be a long old day. Do try to not get your hopes up too much. I know this article won’t have helped, but we all know Arsene: he’s hardly Elton John when it comes to spending money.
However, as I talked to arseblogger yesterday, we both couldn’t help but recall Wenger’s head, held sadly in his hands as Arsenal slumped 1-0 to Manchester City. Was that moment a turning point, when Arsene decided to do something about his lacklustre squad?
Today’s the day we find out.
Update: West Ham??? What the…
Update 2: I have it on very good authority that Peter Kenyon is currently locked in talks over the transfer of Ashley Cole. Also, Julio Baptista was absent from a Real Madrid training session for “personal reasons”…
Update 3: It seems the Baptista deal is done. Reyes has gone the other way, both on a season’s loan. It’s expected Jose will wear number 19 for Madrid.
