Arsenal Look to Argentina

Arsenal look set to complete the signing of Ricardo Alvarez from Velez Sarsfield. As the clocks tick down to the start of the season, fans in North London grow more and more frustrated. While Manchester United are spending the cash with the signing of Ashley Young, the only signing that looks set for Arsenal is the fairly unknown Argentinian Midfielder Alvarez.

With a host of clubs chasing the 23 year old highly rated Velez Sarsfield player, Palermo president Maurizio Zamparini has lifted the lid on the situation by claiming Alvarez has already signed for the North London outfit. "We did have a concrete bid for Alvarez and had him in our grasp back in January," he told Radio Kiss Kiss.

"Unfortunately, we didn't complete the move in time, so we lost him to Arsenal. At this moment he has already signed for the Gunners".

It is already known that among the host of players that have been shown the exit door at the Emirates is Denilson. The Brazilian, who is widely recognised as the hate figure for Arsenal fans has been below par for a while and with Rosicky's regular poor performances becoming somewhat of a trademark, Wenger is looking to refresh the midfield ranks.

So what do we know about Alvarez? His 3 goals in 14 games is unlikely to fill the Arsenal fans with optimism for what is going to be a critical season in the club's future. Many fans have already labelled him the, "Rosicky treatment table replacement", due to his injury record. However, he is known as "Ricky the Wonderful" by the Velez fans and has produced some outstanding performances this season. The midfielder has an eye for goal and has deceptively quick feet. His movement both on and off the ball reflects his ability to think two- three steps ahead of play and is a player clearly suited to a bigger league than Argentine Primera Divsion.

Alvarez will face stern competition from Ramsey and Wilshere for a starting place in midfield. Undoubtedly a player with huge potential, he can either turn out to be the next Iniesta, or the next Diaby. Denilson's exit may bring joy for Gooners across the country, but only the coming season will tell whether Wenger is replacing like for like.


See Alvarez video compilation here