Wenger's dilemma: Jovetic, Higuain or Rooney?

“From Henry to Van Persie to whom?” is the question in many of the supporters minds. This was a season which did not go according to plans for Arsenal. One can easily point out that it all started with the departure of fan favorite Robin van Perise to rivals Manchster United. This was followed by some poor performances at the start of the season which included some crucial defensive errors. In the attack department Arsene Wenger had to put his faith in an inexperienced Olivier Giroud who struggled in the beginning but somehow repaid his faith towards the end of the season.

Arsenal has always had that one prolific striker upfront to finish off the chances that came. It was the club legend Thierry Henry who later moved to Barcelona putting Arsenal under some pressure. Then Wenger found his talisman in Van Persie who evolved into a lethal finisher as time passed. But Van Persie wanted to move on and Wenger had less time to find a replacement for a striker of his standard. By just scraping out a top 4 finish yet again, Arsenal might have looked as if they have finished the season on a high but a lot needs to be done in this transfer window.

It is very clear that Arsenal need a central striker. With Champions League assured for next season the options they are left with is abundant as well. Let’s look at the top 3 options for the Gunners.

Gonzalo Higuain:

The Argentine has made some mark in a Real Madrid jersey no doubt, but has been hit by injuries for a major part of his career and huge competition to make it to the starting XI made it even tougher for him. He may not be the perfect fit for Arsenal because of their “pass and play” style. But a striker of his class should not take a lot of time to adapt too. Earlier this week, the fire was up in the rumor mill as the striker reportedly said that Arsenal could be an option for him. Also, he has that winning mentality which is important for Arsenal as a lion share of the team is young and raw.

Stefan Jovetic:

The 23-year-old forward has taken the Serie A by storm this season showing some good attacking displays. Though he has been sidelined as injury prone, he could be a cheap buy for Arsenal compared to Higuain or Rooney. But the time he would take to fit in might turn out to be problem. Also, he has negligible experience winning tournaments and playing big matches especially in the European stage. If Wenger has a solution to these, he might be the best option he has as the transfer could be more economical.

Wayne Rooney:

The 27-year old English goal machine put himself on the fringes as he declared that he was not happy not getting many chances to play. Also to add to his frustration, he was mostly played out of his position as a CAM or second striker. If he wants to leave, Arsenal has to be his most preferred destination in England as he would fit in perfectly into the team. He can pass the ball with precision, create chances and finish them as well. This is exactly what Wenger wants from his strikers.

It would be quite interesting to see who Wenger gets to be his next Henry or will he get anyone at all. Moreover, can this transfer, if it takes place, boost Arsenal to a title contending position? Can this transfer instill a winning mentality in the youngsters? All remains to be seen as an exciting season waits following a transfer season which could bring about some surprises.