1st January signing unveiled and Thierry Henry approves – this midfielder will win us the league

Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Granit Xhaka is reported to be on Arsenal’s radar as a potential January transfer. The Gunners have identified a need for a defensive midfielder, and Arsenal legend, Thierry Henry has also stated a requirement for a player in that position.

Xhaka has caught Arsene Wenger’s attention with his commendable performances in Bundesliga and Champions League. He has also forced Bayern Munich to take notice who might give Arsenal competition for signing him.

The 23 year old is versatile enough to play as a holding midfielder, or as deep-end playmaker, similar to the likes of Xabi Alonso. With 3 goals in 15 appearances his role will be more towards providing support for Mesut Ozil, Alexis Sanchez and Cazorla. Xhaka would be the perfect addition playing behind Ozil who currently runs the show for Arsenal. Knowing Xhaka would have his back, the German international can adopt an even freer and elaborate role on the field for the Gunners creating a more aggressive run upfront.

The Switzerland international, has however expressed no interest in leaving the club but this does not mean Arsenal holds no chance to lure him away. “I am under contract until 2019 here and I am really enjoying life at the club,” he said. “This is all that matters to me, for the rest I have got my advisor and my father!”
Monchengladbach currently holds fifth position in Bundesliga, and has won seven of their last eight games. Arsenal, is having a better season in the Premier League, as they are title contenders currently second in the league.

Arsenal has also been linked with other midfielders, namely, William Carvalho from Sporting Lisbon, Ruben Neves of Porto, Southampton midfielder Victor Wanyama and Paris Saint Germain’s Adrien Rabiot.

Out of all of these prospects, Xhaka appears to be the perfect bid for the Gunners, as his ability to defend, as well as aid to forward runs can prove vital when it comes to counter-attacks, controlling the pace of the game, and retaining possession.