Arsenal Transfers: Picking One Player From Each Ligue 1 Side

Use your ← → (arrows) to browse

Troyes: Thomas Ayasse

Troyes is not in good form this year. But to be in Ligue 1, there has to be some quality, and Troyes has some quality in their defensive midfielder Thomas Ayasse. While he is already 28 years old and mired at the bottom of Ligue 1, Ayasse has some definable qualities that would make him a boon to Arsenal’s ever-thin midfield.

More from Pain in the Arsenal

For starters, the guy is big. At 183 cm tall, he stands as big as Lars Bender. He uses that size well. Ayasse averages over three tackles per game and it is tackling and physicality that Arsenal needs more than anything.

The only major problem with Ayasse is his discipline. He is a bit of a Francis Coquelin that never learned. Ayasse has amassed three yellows and a red in 965 minutes of play. Not the worst return ever, but it would still be something to monitor. It’s also a good thing though. Arsenal really needs a bruiser type right now.

I almost selected Jessy Pi for Troyes but he does not tackle, he intercepts. With such a lack of physicality, Arsenal need that tackling menace in the middle of the pitch.

Next up, what can Toulouse provide for Arsenal’s arsenal?

Next: Toulouse

15 Arsenal Transfer Rumors To Follow</a></p> <p>Arsenal has also been linked to their fair share of Ligue 1 stars, including Edinson Cavani, Alexandre Lacazette, Zlatan Ibrahimovic and Marco Verratti. No such moves have come to fruition but you can bet that, given that it is Arsene Wenger’s homeland, he is regularly poking his his head in, searching for potential deals.<div class="related-category right"> <div class="related-main-title">More from <span class="related-name">Arsenal Transfer Rumours</span></div> <ul> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/04/david-ornstein-reveals-position-arsenal-will-strengthen/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">David Ornstein reveals important position Arsenal will strengthen</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/03/arsenal-transfers-aaron-ramsdale-currently-not-chelsea-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Aaron Ramsdale currently NOT a Chelsea target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/12/brentford-want-60m-arsenal-top-transfer-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Brentford demanding £60m for Gunners #1 transfer target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/03/why-arsenal-prioritise-pedro-neto-signing/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Why Pedro Neto’s a better signing for Arsenal than Ivan Toney</a> </li> </ul> </div></p> <p>January is going to be pretty eventful for Arsenal, whether new signings are made or not. Arsenal desperately need some reinforcements but with Wenger at the helm, there is always the risk that very little or no signings are made. Rumors will still run rampant however, as they are now. Arsenal are tied to at least five PSG players, three from OGC Nice and the usual from Lyon.</p> <p>This slideshow is dedicated not only to plausible transfers but to wild fantasies as well. Feel free to come here looking for Edinson Cavani rumors. We have sworn to disregard any link to Edinson Cavani from now until kingdom come, however, we can still fantasize about him in an Arsenal kit. Zlatan is not so far-fetched, but will he be the one man from PSG that Arsenal could use the most from PSG?</p> <p>Only time will tell. Let’s get started with the back end of the league, with the unfortunate Troyes.</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Troyes</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/159726997" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.498316% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/159726997?et=p0-s2FgUQxBPKmrFrYcBaA&viewMoreLink=on&sig=VkDqFygXcwT-OCp_IJ29-75sKKgk-YZvmdsMTuU6AA8=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="395" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Troyes: Thomas Ayasse</h3> <p>Troyes is not in good form this year. But to be in Ligue 1, there has to be some quality, and Troyes has some quality in their defensive midfielder Thomas Ayasse. While he is already 28 years old and mired at the bottom of Ligue 1, Ayasse has some definable qualities that would make him a boon to Arsenal’s ever-thin midfield.<div class="recent-posts "> <h4>More from <b>Pain in the Arsenal</b></h4> <ul> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/"> Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/when-will-martin-odegaard-return-from-his-injury/"> When will Martin Odegaard return from his injury? </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/2-midfielders-arsenal-could-sign-in-january-transfer-window/"> 2 midfielders Arsenal could sign in January transfer window </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/thomas-partey-unlikely-to-play-for-arsenal-again-in-2023/"> Thomas Partey unlikely to play for Arsenal again in 2023 </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/predicted-arsenal-lineup-vs-burnley-saka-fit-to-start/"> Predicted Arsenal lineup vs Burnley: Saka fit to start? </a> </ul> </div></p> <p>For starters, the guy is big. At 183 cm tall, he stands as big as Lars Bender. He uses that size well. Ayasse averages over three tackles per game and it is tackling and physicality that Arsenal needs more than anything.</p> <p>The only major problem with Ayasse is his discipline. He is a bit of a Francis Coquelin that never learned. Ayasse has amassed three yellows and a red in 965 minutes of play. Not the worst return ever, but it would still be something to monitor. It’s also a good thing though. Arsenal really needs a bruiser type right now.</p> <p>I almost selected Jessy Pi for Troyes but he does not tackle, he intercepts. With such a lack of physicality, Arsenal need that tackling menace in the middle of the pitch.</p> <p>Next up, what can Toulouse provide for Arsenal’s arsenal?</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Toulouse</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/489328652" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.666667% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/489328652?et=yLAPva7NTZBgGHLwYHNXSA&viewMoreLink=on&sig=aGoRHvtjNw1RXocKYqKrpHSGOyX961LtNXnqXDwk23w=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="396" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Toulouse: Jen-Daniel Akpa-Akpro</h3> <p>Aside from having four names, Akpa-Akpro has plenty of other things to brag about as well. He is versatile enough to play any midfield position as well as right back. He has excellent dribbling abilities and pace to go along with it. He is also starting to become a regular with the Ivory Coast.<div class="related-category right"> <div class="related-main-title">More from <span class="related-name">Arsenal Transfer Rumours</span></div> <ul> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/04/david-ornstein-reveals-position-arsenal-will-strengthen/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">David Ornstein reveals important position Arsenal will strengthen</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/03/arsenal-transfers-aaron-ramsdale-currently-not-chelsea-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Aaron Ramsdale currently NOT a Chelsea target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/12/brentford-want-60m-arsenal-top-transfer-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Brentford demanding £60m for Gunners #1 transfer target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/03/why-arsenal-prioritise-pedro-neto-signing/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Why Pedro Neto’s a better signing for Arsenal than Ivan Toney</a> </li> </ul> </div></p> <p>But it is Akpa-Akpro’s defensive qualities that make him the most attractive to Arsenal’s cause. The man averages 5.5 tackles per game. That is more than Lars Bender, Grzegorz Krychowiak, Granit Xhaka or anyone else you want to throw into that list. But, just in case it needs to be said, I would not prefer Akpa-Akpro to anyone on that list.</p> <p>The Ivorian has also racked up six yellow cards in over 1300 minutes of play. Seems to be the trend when you find someone good at tackling.</p> <p>Akpa-Akpro can also be an offensive tool, as his pace allows. And at just 23 years of age, he has plenty of time to improve and become more consistent. His size allows him to be a formidable force as well, as he stands at 180 cm.</p> <p>Moving up the table, we hit Lille next. Is another Gervinho waiting?</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Lille</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/495224016" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.498316% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/495224016?et=BWAVV4ugTwddPKno5VcYlw&viewMoreLink=on&sig=AsvCZpKWC4dwumxZmorUMeWVLAfkr-bYibVMLjXIvN0=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="395" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Lille: Sofiane Boufal</h3> <p>I actually really like this young Moroccan. He looks absolutely majestic on the ball sometimes. He has the technical ability to widdle his way through defenses with ease. The stats are there to back him up. Boufal is carrying Lille on the offensive side of the ball. His four goals account for 44% of his teams scoring. His 2.9 key passes per game are twice what the second place guy has.</p> <p>Boufal is a special talent and he is only 22 years old. What makes him the most intriguing is how versatile he is. Boufal has played in every single advanced position so far this season. He has made his most appearances on the left, but has been almost, if not moreso, effective at the No. 10 role.</p> <p>Boufal actually offers something from the left that Arsenal does not have much of. He can cross. Very well. He puts in a cool 1.8 crosses per game. The young Boufal reminds me a lot of a young, left-sided Riyad Mahrez. He has an engine on the pitch and it will be exciting to see where the young man ends up with his career.</p> <p>Step up, Bordeaux, what you got for Arsenal?</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Bordeaux</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/500195836" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.666667% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/500195836?et=zpSiXEYgRvdgxjv4R4LTCA&viewMoreLink=on&sig=yrLSR6U0b72u8C8NLYLVaOfJ396X-OR6nFc-0dRYaOQ=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="396" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Bordeaux: Wahbi Khazri</h3> <p>Some teams pick their own Arsenal contribution. To pick anyone else on Bordeaux would be a mistake. Khazri leads the team in everything. He has four goals, five assists, three key passes per appearance and he even maintains two and a half tackles per game.<div class="recent-posts "> <h4>More from <b>Pain in the Arsenal</b></h4> <ul> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/"> Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/when-will-martin-odegaard-return-from-his-injury/"> When will Martin Odegaard return from his injury? </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/2-midfielders-arsenal-could-sign-in-january-transfer-window/"> 2 midfielders Arsenal could sign in January transfer window </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/thomas-partey-unlikely-to-play-for-arsenal-again-in-2023/"> Thomas Partey unlikely to play for Arsenal again in 2023 </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/predicted-arsenal-lineup-vs-burnley-saka-fit-to-start/"> Predicted Arsenal lineup vs Burnley: Saka fit to start? </a> </ul> </div></p><div class="widget fs_ads"> <div class="fs_ad_widget-ad" style="margin:0 auto; width: 300px;"> <div class="fs-ll-ad" data-ad-type="minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet" data-vendor="minutemedia"> <div id="minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet" data-position="slideshow_inline" data-slot="inline_38212" style="width:300px;margin: 0 auto;"> <script> googletag.cmd.push(function () { googletag.defineSlot("/175840252/fansided.com/PainintheArsenal/mpu",[300, 250], "minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet") .addService(googletag.pubads()); googletag.enableServices(); googletag.display("minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet"); }); </script> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p>Khazri is the lifeblood of the French outfit. To make his stock even more enticing, Khazri has a knack for the free kick as well. He’s like the Swiss army knife of midfielders, only he’s Tunisian. Call him the Tunisian army knife.</p> <p>Speaking of Tunisia, Khazri has already scored six goals in his first 13 international competitions. At just 24 years of age, Khazri is hitting his prime and he is proving it with his numbers. As such, he is being scouted by Everton, Stoke City and Newcastle, according to <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.getfootballnewsfrance.com/2015/newcastle-stoke-city-everton-interested-in-wahbi-khazri/" target="_blank">reports</a>.</p> <p>Wherever he ends up, this guy has the tools to succeed. He even has the versatility to play anywhere ahead of the back four. Again, what can’t the Tunisian army knife do?</p> <p>Next up, Wahbi Khazri’s former club, Bastia.</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Bastia</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—></p><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/484882536" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 69.696970% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/484882536?et=tZS1fnFGQ7ZSSLATKvi8GA&viewMoreLink=on&sig=s9pXPVxxCW1rjxWN8GblOd3YBhdhcjnD4Xigui9-ux8=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="414" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Bastia: Seko Fofana</h3> <p>Not Sebastian Squillaci? I know right. Crazy. Although, all jokes aside, Squidward Squillaci is having a pretty decent year with SC Bastia. I’ll try to hide my interest.<div class="recent-posts "> <h4>More from <b>Pain in the Arsenal</b></h4> <ul> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/"> Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/when-will-martin-odegaard-return-from-his-injury/"> When will Martin Odegaard return from his injury? </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/2-midfielders-arsenal-could-sign-in-january-transfer-window/"> 2 midfielders Arsenal could sign in January transfer window </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/thomas-partey-unlikely-to-play-for-arsenal-again-in-2023/"> Thomas Partey unlikely to play for Arsenal again in 2023 </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/predicted-arsenal-lineup-vs-burnley-saka-fit-to-start/"> Predicted Arsenal lineup vs Burnley: Saka fit to start? </a> </ul> </div></p> <p>I had a tough time picking out someone from Bastia because there is not one person that stands out. There is no Wahbi Khazri. So I am going with the potential of one young 20 year old, Seko Fofana. The young French midfielder has the size to become an imposing force in the defensive midfield role that he’s been given. 183 cm for a 20 year old is rather impressive.</p> <p>While his two tackles and one and a half interceptions per appearance are nothing to write home about, he is still young. Along those lines, his 86% pass completion is indicative of very impressive composure for someone so young.</p> <p>Fofana has already become a regular in the Bastia midfield. Even for a team in the lower portion of the table, that is a good indication of the quality that he is showing so far.</p> <p>Montpellier is next. The old stomping grounds of Olivier Giroud.</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Montpellier</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/163806859" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.498316% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/163806859?et=zNz-tnxHR0h0omU42Co4KQ&viewMoreLink=on&sig=BK8uACLQ8MSeSPyKgSCv7Wfe7P1sxHrXjQW1gWu13qw=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="395" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Montpellier: Jerome Roussillon</h3> <p>This was a team like Bastia. There is no Olivier Giroud waiting to be picked out from this generation of Montpellier stock. So who did I find? A versatile left-sided young man with plenty of time to learn. Jerome Roussillon.</p> <p>The 22 year old Frenchman can play anything on the left side of the pitch. From left back to left wing, he is fully capable. He has even scored two and assisted on two. Let’s think of him like a younger Kieran Gibbs. Except not really.</p> <p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/14/arsenal-20-greatest-goals-last-20-years/">20 Greatest Arsenal Goals Of Last 20 Years</a></p> <p>Roussillon has played nine times at left back, where he averages two tackles and an interception and a half. Not too shabby. But move Roussillon forward to the attacking left flank and in his three appearances he has scored two and assisted on one. That right there is versatility.</p> <p>Add to his arsenal a respectable pass completion of 82% and this young man looks like he may have a lot to look forward to. He is a fantastic dribbler and one of those creative full back types that Arsenal has taken a liking to.</p> <p>Guingamp, what have you?</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Guingamp</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/490295912" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.498316% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/490295912?et=OHm_GaOYTL1INxb_gQeTRQ&viewMoreLink=on&sig=g_058LWL91JzRWyRzmBnN5KYc13JXQpD9tX15NzURDM=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="395" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Guingamp: Nicolas Benezet</h3> <p>Again, not an easy decision. But there is one aspect of Benezet’s game that you will see every time you watch him that stands out. His work ethic. The Frenchman is always tracking back to defend. He has the versatility to play anywhere ahead of the front four, but no matter where he is, you can bet that he will be hounding the ball.<div class="recent-posts "> <h4>More from <b>Pain in the Arsenal</b></h4> <ul> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/"> Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/when-will-martin-odegaard-return-from-his-injury/"> When will Martin Odegaard return from his injury? </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/2-midfielders-arsenal-could-sign-in-january-transfer-window/"> 2 midfielders Arsenal could sign in January transfer window </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/thomas-partey-unlikely-to-play-for-arsenal-again-in-2023/"> Thomas Partey unlikely to play for Arsenal again in 2023 </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/predicted-arsenal-lineup-vs-burnley-saka-fit-to-start/"> Predicted Arsenal lineup vs Burnley: Saka fit to start? </a> </ul> </div></p> <p>As such, he averages two tackles and an interception and a half per appearance despite being used primarily in forward roles. It’s hard to pinpoint where exactly he is at his best. Benezet has started five times as a left midfielder and scored only once. Yet he has started just once as a right-sided midfielder and scored twice and assisted once. None of that should be surprising when considering his intense work rate.</p> <p>Despite a rather sour 73% pass completion, Benezet leads Guingamp in key passes per appearance with 2.3. Also, being just 24, he still has time to maximize his potential.</p> <p>We are inching closer to the top half of the table. Next up is Ajaccio.</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Ajaccio</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/459833194" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.498316% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/459833194?et=tYP9naEpSwRESHXN5j7Qqg&viewMoreLink=on&sig=OXmYbVf16A9OJt7GPuR6P5aFb8z5FeX-9AFKaeGyAfI=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="395" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Ajaccio: Issiaga Sylla</h3> <p>Is this cheating because he is on loan from Toulouse? No. Why? Because I said so. Issiaga Sylla is a fun guy to watch. At 21 years of age, he embodies the term ‘creative fullback’. Sylla can play with equal effectiveness on the right or the left side of the defense. Although, given his affinity to give the ball away, a midfield role would not be the worst idea either.<div class="related-category right"> <div class="related-main-title">More from <span class="related-name">Arsenal Transfer Rumours</span></div> <ul> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/04/david-ornstein-reveals-position-arsenal-will-strengthen/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">David Ornstein reveals important position Arsenal will strengthen</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/03/arsenal-transfers-aaron-ramsdale-currently-not-chelsea-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Aaron Ramsdale currently NOT a Chelsea target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/12/brentford-want-60m-arsenal-top-transfer-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Brentford demanding £60m for Gunners #1 transfer target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/03/why-arsenal-prioritise-pedro-neto-signing/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Why Pedro Neto’s a better signing for Arsenal than Ivan Toney</a> </li> </ul> </div></p> <p>Sylla is aggressive. The Guinean manages three tackles and three interceptions per game. He also racks up his fair share of disciplinary measures. But he’s young.</p> <p>One of the most telling stats for a fullback in judging his offensive qualities is the chances created stat. Sylla createst 1.3 chances per 90, contributes a key pass per 90 and even has two assists on the year.</p> <p>Sylla can be enigmatic at times, but when he is at his eccentric best, he is a joy to watch. And remember, he is only 21. Those disciplinary problems and his willingness to give the ball away can be amended. Toulouse will be thrilled when he returns home.</p> <p>Next up, Reims.</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Reims</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/499614096" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 64.983165% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/499614096?et=XgHfsGuIS69O7UuBPeTLlg&viewMoreLink=on&sig=HoR4fD9nshoJmY2ROqVoxr_lXd4iGuRAGSdKunIrTUI=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="386" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Reims: Jordan Siebatcheu</h3> <p>Let’s pull the potential card again. Reims is a pretty well-balanced team with very few clear-cut stars to choose from. However, one potential star to be is French-American striker Jordan Siebatcheu. The 19 year old has scored three times and assisted twice in just 499 minutes of play.</p><div class="widget fs_ads"> <div class="fs_ad_widget-ad" style="margin:0 auto; width: 300px;"> <div class="fs-ll-ad" data-ad-type="minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet" data-vendor="minutemedia"> <div id="minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet" data-position="slideshow_inline" data-slot="inline_38212" style="width:300px;margin: 0 auto;"> <script> googletag.cmd.push(function () { googletag.defineSlot("/175840252/fansided.com/PainintheArsenal/mpu",[300, 250], "minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet") .addService(googletag.pubads()); googletag.enableServices(); googletag.display("minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet"); }); </script> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p><strong>Related:</strong> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/11/27/arsenals-top-10-champions-league-moments/">Arsenal’s Top 10 Champions League Moments</a></p> <p>While two of his goals were all down to fortunate positioning, it still takes a degree of composure to welcome that ball onto your foot and put it away. It is more than Yaya Sanogo can do. So yes, I am saying that I would rather Siebatcheu to Sanogo. Plus, Siebatcheu is the same height, but not as lanky and three years younger.</p> <p>Siebatcheu has not yet harnessed the potential of his aerial game but that will come with time. Again, he is only 19. You can never have too many aerial threats and once Olivier Giroud moves on, Arsenal will lose the best aerial threat in the EPL. I’m not saying Siebatcheu is the next Giroud, but I had to pick someone, and Siebatcheu looks pretty good.</p> <p>Anyway, next up is Nantes.</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Nantes</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—></p><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/493948550" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.666667% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/493948550?et=S7aq6WKiRdRyTL-y1ic-FQ&viewMoreLink=on&sig=gVqhbLh44SNgDf84pYqJmua55tlCkp0eeHW0teHJBrE=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="396" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Nantes: Valentin Rongier</h3> <p>Here is someone that I really wish Arsenal would actually look at. The young, 21 year old midfielder has some excellent defensive qualities. He is a fantastic tackler, averaging 3.2 tackles per game. He also maintains two interceptions per game. Those aren’t Lars Bender numbers, but this is a 21 year old and he would not fetch a Lars Bender price. In fact, his <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.transfermarkt.com/valentin-rongier/profil/spieler/332889">market value</a> is still nowhere in the vicinity of a million. As such, he may register as one of those “young French folk” that Wenger tends to go for.<div class="recent-posts "> <h4>More from <b>Pain in the Arsenal</b></h4> <ul> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/"> Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/when-will-martin-odegaard-return-from-his-injury/"> When will Martin Odegaard return from his injury? </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/2-midfielders-arsenal-could-sign-in-january-transfer-window/"> 2 midfielders Arsenal could sign in January transfer window </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/thomas-partey-unlikely-to-play-for-arsenal-again-in-2023/"> Thomas Partey unlikely to play for Arsenal again in 2023 </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/predicted-arsenal-lineup-vs-burnley-saka-fit-to-start/"> Predicted Arsenal lineup vs Burnley: Saka fit to start? </a> </ul> </div></p> <p>But Rongier is a very quality find as he is. Offensively he has a very steady touch with the ball at his feet. He maintains a steady 85% pass completion. No shame in that.</p> <p>The only potential downfall is that he is not that big. For the same reason I am praising Rongier, I also degraded Marcelo Brozovic. The point of this list is to pick one guy from each team. Rongier is the most useful player that Nantes have when it comes to appealing to Arsenal.</p> <p>Next up, one that should be painfully obvious if you follow Pain in the Arsenal at all – Marseille.</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Marseille</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/491341160" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.498316% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/491341160?et=lu08zPFGRHtnf_nw-V3SoQ&viewMoreLink=on&sig=tbeYe7oGwA_FtYZjUn0WsYDIdI9YrdTvLlaylR7Ui2I=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="395" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Marseille: Michy Batshuayi</h3> <p>Why doesn’t Michy Batshuayi play for Arsenal yet? I can’t help but think that in some parallel universe he has been with Arsenal for the past three years. The young Belgian striker is tearing up Ligue 1. Unfortunately for him, Marseille is not following suit. He has netted 13 times and added five assists in all competitions. That is a lot.</p> <p>Batshuayi is a physical dude, even if he does not wield that strength to the best of his ability yet. He’s like a young Romelu Lukaku. His finishing is phenomenal. He is a threat on the break and remember, he is just 21 years old.</p> <p>Arsenal missed a great opportunity to nab him last summer. Now that he is at Marseille, everyone knows how good he is and everyone wants a piece of that goodness. It won’t come cheap.</p> <p>Batshuayi just has the feel of someone that should have been at Arsenal a long time ago. He has some downfalls in his game but an experienced, proven teacher like Arsene Wenger may be able to iron him out into the full, driven player that he can become.</p> <p>Onward to Rennes!</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Rennes</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/462537034" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.498316% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/462537034?et=BLdO79ZXSslJxOIyNHNhiQ&viewMoreLink=on&sig=kC2LT_raPdimS66X9uEPZLexqnIARH9Fqj-NCRnx5A8=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="395" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Rennes: Gelson Fernandes</h3> <p>I’m not getting creative with this choice. I’m not taking the creative minds or the young prospects. I am taking the hulking bruiser that patrols the base of midfield with very strong qualities. That is the mantra of 29 year old Swiss midfielder Gelson Fernandes.<div class="related-category right"> <div class="related-main-title">More from <span class="related-name">Arsenal Transfer Rumours</span></div> <ul> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/04/david-ornstein-reveals-position-arsenal-will-strengthen/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">David Ornstein reveals important position Arsenal will strengthen</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/03/arsenal-transfers-aaron-ramsdale-currently-not-chelsea-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Aaron Ramsdale currently NOT a Chelsea target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/12/brentford-want-60m-arsenal-top-transfer-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Brentford demanding £60m for Gunners #1 transfer target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/03/why-arsenal-prioritise-pedro-neto-signing/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Why Pedro Neto’s a better signing for Arsenal than Ivan Toney</a> </li> </ul> </div></p> <p>Speaking practically, Fernandes actually makes sense from an Arsenal perspective. At 29 years old, he could pitch in a year or two until Hayden, Bielik and whoever else is ready.</p> <p>Fernandes is a strong defensive mind. He averages a stout five tackles per appearance and 2.3 interceptions as well. Those are Lars Bender numbers. Fernandes also has a goal and an 87% pass completion. Sounds like an older Francis Coquelin.</p> <p>Arsenal is in desperate need for a defensive midfielder, in case you have not heard. But finding a true defensive-minded body that fills that role is not always so easy. Gelson Fernandes is one such guy.</p> <p>Next up, the stomping grounds of Laurent Koscielny – Lorient.</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Lorient</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/481592306" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.498316% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/481592306?et=-QHi8nfwS7VN6bynNHKt8A&viewMoreLink=on&sig=Z3Hpo_MePQuJkoZUS38IgXltkWTTmTyKhoAsU1Pa3F8=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="395" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Lorient: Didier Ndong</h3> <p>The temptation here is go go for the glory signing – Benjamin Moukandjo. But I’m not going to bite on that one. I’m opting for the young midfielder yet again. So boring, right? Not if you’ve seen his hair.<div class="recent-posts "> <h4>More from <b>Pain in the Arsenal</b></h4> <ul> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/"> Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/when-will-martin-odegaard-return-from-his-injury/"> When will Martin Odegaard return from his injury? </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/2-midfielders-arsenal-could-sign-in-january-transfer-window/"> 2 midfielders Arsenal could sign in January transfer window </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/thomas-partey-unlikely-to-play-for-arsenal-again-in-2023/"> Thomas Partey unlikely to play for Arsenal again in 2023 </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/predicted-arsenal-lineup-vs-burnley-saka-fit-to-start/"> Predicted Arsenal lineup vs Burnley: Saka fit to start? </a> </ul> </div></p> <p>Didier Ndong is a 21 year old midfielder from the footballing fortress of Gabon. He is versatile enough to play centrally, defensively, or a wide midfield role. He is also an absolute engine. It takes a rare day for him not to play 90 minutes.</p> <p>Defensively, the Gabonese midfielder has his act together. Except for a few problems with discipline. He has the size and strength to muster a good deal of command in the middle of the pitch. He averages three tackles and two and a half interceptions per game while still maintaining a very sturdy 87% pass completion.</p> <p>Ndong is also an offensive threat, as he has netted twice and assisted once.</p> <p>Young, strong and composed in the passing lanes. All are signs of a holding midfielder with tons of potential. The only drawback is his discipline. He racks up yellow cards with undue frequency. That can be fixed though.</p> <p>Moving on, we get to Saint-Etienne</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Saint-Etienne</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/496368186" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 72.053872% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/496368186?et=7n_7U1FNSAphgbvV__-jvw&viewMoreLink=on&sig=D7ZuOQSn5NVtgfGEfB6zJuZnmpMjSdp9YZ818jfgyqo=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="428" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Saint-Etienne: Loic Perrin</h3> <p>Saint-Etienne is a fun team because they don’t really have that stalwart offensive talent. They do have Loic Perrin, a center back that Arsenal has been tied to before, and I have chosen him for two reasons. First of all, he is a consistent defender. You can never have too many of those. Second of all, Saint-Etienne does not have too many others that I would be terribly interested in.<div class="related-category right"> <div class="related-main-title">More from <span class="related-name">Arsenal Transfer Rumours</span></div> <ul> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/04/david-ornstein-reveals-position-arsenal-will-strengthen/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">David Ornstein reveals important position Arsenal will strengthen</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/03/arsenal-transfers-aaron-ramsdale-currently-not-chelsea-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Aaron Ramsdale currently NOT a Chelsea target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/12/brentford-want-60m-arsenal-top-transfer-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Brentford demanding £60m for Gunners #1 transfer target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/03/why-arsenal-prioritise-pedro-neto-signing/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Why Pedro Neto’s a better signing for Arsenal than Ivan Toney</a> </li> </ul> </div></p><div class="widget fs_ads"> <div class="fs_ad_widget-ad" style="margin:0 auto; width: 300px;"> <div class="fs-ll-ad" data-ad-type="minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet" data-vendor="minutemedia"> <div id="minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet" data-position="slideshow_inline" data-slot="inline_38212" style="width:300px;margin: 0 auto;"> <script> googletag.cmd.push(function () { googletag.defineSlot("/175840252/fansided.com/PainintheArsenal/mpu",[300, 250], "minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet") .addService(googletag.pubads()); googletag.enableServices(); googletag.display("minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet"); }); </script> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p>Perrin is an aerial master. That is reason enough for Arsenal to tune in. Perrin wins twice as many aerials as Per Mertesacker and he already has three goals and an assist on the season. Pretty impressive from a center back. He keeps his pass completion at a cool 82% and also contributes over two tackles and interceptions per game.</p> <p>He may not be that eye-popping signing or that huge potential signing but Perrin is reliable. He plays 90 minutes in every game, is rarely hurt and has only picked up one yellow card on the year. There is something to be said about a guy who can play 90 minutes every single match day.</p> <p>On to Lyon. Will it be as obvious as you think?</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Lyon</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—></p><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/499714774" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.666667% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/499714774?et=cWvjXFwvQuRteNepVi866A&viewMoreLink=on&sig=Dk_rZ-ju4goT6iRfv5H3micjuRgR4fkzZ7h0JOMldzc=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="396" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Lyon: Alexandre Lacazette</h3> <p>Yes, yes it was as obvious as you thought. While my initial intention was to opt for Nabil Fekir, there were a few things I could not see past. He plays Ozil’s position, for one. Secondly, he provides very little defensive assistance. Nor has he ever.<div class="recent-posts "> <h4>More from <b>Pain in the Arsenal</b></h4> <ul> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/"> Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/when-will-martin-odegaard-return-from-his-injury/"> When will Martin Odegaard return from his injury? </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/2-midfielders-arsenal-could-sign-in-january-transfer-window/"> 2 midfielders Arsenal could sign in January transfer window </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/thomas-partey-unlikely-to-play-for-arsenal-again-in-2023/"> Thomas Partey unlikely to play for Arsenal again in 2023 </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/predicted-arsenal-lineup-vs-burnley-saka-fit-to-start/"> Predicted Arsenal lineup vs Burnley: Saka fit to start? </a> </ul> </div></p> <p>So why not just opt for the guy that is not required to offer defensive assistance?</p> <p>I’m a big fan of Lacazette. He is like a blend between Giroud and Walcott. He’s quick, strong, holds the ball well and is a great finisher in front of the net. He was heavily linked to Arsenal last season but despite all the drama between him and Lyon, he stayed put. It has not been the same as his breakout season yet, with Lacazette scoring just six goals but that does not mean he has fallen off the table. We have seen what he can do. He beat out Zlatan Ibrahimovic for the Ligue 1 top scorer last year. That is something to take to the bank.</p> <p>Cost was the major hang up when it came to bringing the two together. A nice down year could be all that’s needed to lower that price tag a bit.</p> <p>We are getting into the exciting teams now. Who do we want from Nice?</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Nice</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/498069482" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.666667% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/498069482?et=Br6NulihS9VTLkonobgSCA&viewMoreLink=on&sig=UYJjf1GKz9SSlsRplYFRP1IjIaCfuDtQCrVAlAPcorY=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="396" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Nice: Vincent Koziello</h3> <p>If you follow my transfer rumors, this one should have been more obvious than the last. Nice have two good, young defensive midfielders. One is Nampalys Mendy, the other is Koziello. I opted for Koziello because he is three years younger.<div class="related-category right"> <div class="related-main-title">More from <span class="related-name">Arsenal Transfer Rumours</span></div> <ul> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/04/david-ornstein-reveals-position-arsenal-will-strengthen/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">David Ornstein reveals important position Arsenal will strengthen</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/03/arsenal-transfers-aaron-ramsdale-currently-not-chelsea-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Aaron Ramsdale currently NOT a Chelsea target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/12/brentford-want-60m-arsenal-top-transfer-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Brentford demanding £60m for Gunners #1 transfer target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/03/why-arsenal-prioritise-pedro-neto-signing/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Why Pedro Neto’s a better signing for Arsenal than Ivan Toney</a> </li> </ul> </div></p> <p>Neither one is very big, and that is the main drawback, but Koziello is a master tackler already, at just 20 years of age. He averages three and a half tackles per 90. His interceptions leave a bit to be desired at just over one. But the point remains that he is only 20 years old and he is marshaling a Champions-League-contending side in OGC Nice.</p> <p>Koziello also provides a nice offensive threat. With two goals and two assists on the year, he knows how to be effective going forward. Despite averaging less than a key pass a game, he does maintain a pass completion over 90% and that deserves a big gold star.</p> <p>Koziello is actually <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://metro.co.uk/2015/11/24/arsenal-closing-in-on-vincent-koziello-transfer-ahead-of-chelsea-report-5523530/">linked to Arsenal. While his size may be a huge detractor, his undeniable talent should be appealing.</p> <p>Let’s get moving to Thierry Henry’s and Wenger’s old stomping grounds. Monaco.</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Monaco</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/482929288" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 66.666667% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/482929288?et=bJuGBNvvQ0dVFP2dI5nmqA&viewMoreLink=on&sig=vhGUwqiJ4kk5BWmg1ueihoZ8ya2wixxDtWPAkn9FLOY=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="396" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Monaco: Stephan El Shaarawy</h3> <p>I wish Layvin Kurzawa was still here. Or Geoffrey Kondogbia. Both of those catalysts of our demise were destined to be Gunners but they went onto PSG and Inter Milan, respectively. So now we have to cheat and take their on-loan guy, Stephan El Shaarawy.</p> <p>The little Italian/Egyptian used to be hyped like there was no tomorrow. AC Milan had the messiah right in their midst. Yet El Shaarawy has been unable to capitalize on that potential as injuries and inconsistency have proven to be major stumbling blocks. His breakout 2012/13 season where he scored 19 goals in 46 appearances seems so long ago.</p> <p>Yet, he is still only 23 years old and we know how much Arsene Wenger likes his projects. Arsenal may have a lot of young quality on the wings already but as we have learned from this year, the Gunners can still find a way to need more.</p> <p>While El Shaarawy has yet to score in 660 minutes for Monaco in Ligue 1, he has managed three goals and an assist in European competitions.</p> <p>With just three teams left, we now have our pick at Caen.</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Caen</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/464050965" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 72.390572% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/464050965?et=95w81bHqRXFF5-BVYY-YFw&viewMoreLink=on&sig=V3emDi10O0ZSTFU-v575eBiZV6FOCwP21ri19nKeKqY=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="430" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Caen: Chaker Alhadhur</h3> <p>For being so high up in the table, there was not anyone that stood out to me on Caen as the go-to guy to nab for Arsenal. Andy Delort is a good offensive threat but his passing is rough. Nobody has overly-quality defensive numbers either. Nor did any young players stand out to me.<div class="recent-posts "> <h4>More from <b>Pain in the Arsenal</b></h4> <ul> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/"> Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/when-will-martin-odegaard-return-from-his-injury/"> When will Martin Odegaard return from his injury? </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/2-midfielders-arsenal-could-sign-in-january-transfer-window/"> 2 midfielders Arsenal could sign in January transfer window </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/thomas-partey-unlikely-to-play-for-arsenal-again-in-2023/"> Thomas Partey unlikely to play for Arsenal again in 2023 </a> <li> <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/predicted-arsenal-lineup-vs-burnley-saka-fit-to-start/"> Predicted Arsenal lineup vs Burnley: Saka fit to start? </a> </ul> </div></p> <p>So I am going for a somewhat-young depth signing.</p> <p>Mathieu Debuchy is going to be moving on from Arsenal soon and rumor has it Nacho Monreal may be a well. With Kieran Gibbs always a toss-up and Bellerin still young, a little back-up could not hurt.</p> <p>Alhadhur averages 3.4 tackles and interceptions per 90 as well as maintaining an 83% pass completion. He has played just over 600 minutes for Caen, but he has been impressive for those 600 minutes. Although he does not have the offensive abilities that Arsenal has been spoiled with at full back, he still has undeniable defensive qualities. And at just 24 years of age, he has time to give.</p> <p>Two teams left! What does Angers have for us?</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">Angers</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/499560090" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 67.676768% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/499560090?et=MtgYWPWTS-9KNDJH40ivxQ&viewMoreLink=on&sig=d7wUJOvbOYsVnMSSRez86dX66oDPmJMghrqRl1dLAxw=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="402" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">Angers: Billy Ketkeophomphone</h3> <p>Angers provided me some troubles as well. I tried to steer away from Ketkeophomphone because I did not want to keep typing his name, but he looked really good on the pitch, grabbed an assist and commanded attention. At just 25 years of age, he can still grow into more than what he already is, although he should be hitting his prime.<div class="related-category right"> <div class="related-main-title">More from <span class="related-name">Arsenal Transfer Rumours</span></div> <ul> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/10/arsenal-interest-miguel-gutierrez-girona/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Fabrizio Romano confirms Arsenal interest in Girona star</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/04/david-ornstein-reveals-position-arsenal-will-strengthen/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">David Ornstein reveals important position Arsenal will strengthen</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/11/03/arsenal-transfers-aaron-ramsdale-currently-not-chelsea-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Aaron Ramsdale currently NOT a Chelsea target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/12/brentford-want-60m-arsenal-top-transfer-target/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Arsenal Transfers: Brentford demanding £60m for Gunners #1 transfer target</a> </li> <li> <a class="related-link" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2023/10/03/why-arsenal-prioritise-pedro-neto-signing/" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="related-category-shortcode">Why Pedro Neto’s a better signing for Arsenal than Ivan Toney</a> </li> </ul> </div></p><div class="widget fs_ads"> <div class="fs_ad_widget-ad" style="margin:0 auto; width: 300px;"> <div class="fs-ll-ad" data-ad-type="minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet" data-vendor="minutemedia"> <div id="minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet" data-position="slideshow_inline" data-slot="inline_38212" style="width:300px;margin: 0 auto;"> <script> googletag.cmd.push(function () { googletag.defineSlot("/175840252/fansided.com/PainintheArsenal/mpu",[300, 250], "minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet") .addService(googletag.pubads()); googletag.enableServices(); googletag.display("minutemedia_slideshow_inline_300x250__desktop__tablet"); }); </script> </div> </div> </div> </div> <p>The French midfielder leads the team with four assists and he’s added a goal as well. Most of those assists were accumulated by picking up three in his last four matches. He has the versatility to play most forward positions but tends to stay on the right.</p> <p>Ketkeophomphone is a solid defensive contributor as well. He contributes two tackles per game and has a knack for rampaging up and down the touch line. Statistically, he is better as a midfielder, but that does not hamper his versatility.</p> <p>A little depth never hurt anyone and Arsenal could use someone with the versatility to play so many forward positions. Injuries are always ready and waiting to strike.</p> <p>Now, we get to the crowned champion of Ligue 1. I wish I could pick two players from them, but that is too big of a rule to break.</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg slider"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"#"><span class="next amp-next-post-teaser">Next: </span><span class="amp-get-next-post">PSG</span></a></div><!—pageview_candidate—></p><hr id="pagebreak"><div class="getty embed image" style="background-color: #fff;font-family: 'Helvetica Neue',Helvetica,Arial,sans-serif;color: #a7a7a7;font-size: 11px;width: 100%"> <div style="padding: 0;margin: 0;text-align: left"><a style="color: #a7a7a7;text-decoration: none;font-weight: normal !important;border: none" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.gettyimages.com/detail/501247452" target="_blank">Embed from Getty Images</a></div> <div style="overflow: hidden;height: 0;padding: 70.370370% 0 0 0;width: 100%"><iframe loading="lazy" src=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"//embed.gettyimages.com/embed/501247452?et=CEWk5A2yS354--NUTv84dw&viewMoreLink=on&sig=H07hW_DkIAGRZhdPC74ZjfRsKzyhe7VgujjKQWHkS2U=&caption=true%22 scrolling="no" height="418" width="594" style="width: 100%;height: 100%"></iframe></div> <p style="margin: 0"> </p></div> <h3 style="font-size:34px;">PSG: Zlatan Ibrahimovic</h3> <p>It was not easy. I contemplated Cavani, Verratti, Aurier, Rabiot and even Kurzawa. But I could not see past the Swedish Behemoth. Maybe it has something to do with Zlatan hinting that he could come to Arsenal and the Premier League at long last. That’s all it takes for me to see past all his elite team mates.</p> <p>Zlatan Ibrahimovic is the third best striker in the world. Although I’m sure if you asked him, he’d beg to differ. He already has 16 goals and eight assists on the season. There are very few things Zlatan cannot do. He is an aerial master, he is a long shot master, he is a passing master, he is a free kick master… let’s just round it off and say he is a footballing master.</p> <div class="next-post amp-get-next-post lg"><a class="location" data-track="shortcode" data-track-action="next-post-shortcode" href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/07/arsenal-all-time-starting-eleven/">WhoScored and <a href=https://paininthearsenal.com/2015/12/16/arsenal-transfers-picking-one-player-from-each-ligue-1-side/2/"http://www.squawka.com/">Squawka)

Next2 of 21Prev

Use your ← → (arrows) to browse