Arsene Wenger often takes a hammering from his own fanbase for the way in which he goes about his transfer dealings, especially in January.
There have, in the past, been cases for disappointment for the way in which Arsenal have handled themselves in the market.
Seeing the likes of Samir Nasri and Robin van Persie leave for Premier League rivals is not something to inspire fans, neither is the January addition of a crocked Kim Kallstrom.
However, there is method behind what many would perceive as madness.
Arsenal are, without doubt, an excellent, dangerous and highly attractive side, but they always seem to be lacking something.
Something that should exist in order to come into effect when the season reaches boiling point, when the difference between a draw and a win could mean the title.
Whilst pundits and fans alike seem to be handing Antoino Conte and his Chelsea side the title already, one thing needs to be made abundantly clear, the Gunners are still firmly in the title race.
What they need, however, is a certain element of focus and maturity to make sure they stay in with a shot at silverware in Wenger’s twentieth year.
With a predictable draw against Bayern Munich in the Champions League round of 16 progression will be a big ask, meaning form in the Premier League takes on a much higher level of significance.
The resurgence in form from striker Olivier Giroud has covered the blushes of what appears to be an ok signing in Lucas Perez, whilst Alexis Sanchez remains a joy to watch.
Looking at Arsene Wenger’s side, there are no areas which scream out for improvement. Maybe they could use an upgrade in the left-back slot, with Nacho Monreal and Kieran Gibbs far from the best full-backs in the league.
That is not to say they are poor though. The Spaniard is a very reliable option, is more than comfortable against any opposition, whether that be Burnley or Bayern Munich, and works well within Wenger’s side.
At the start of the season the Frenchman stated that he felt he had one of the most mature Arsenal sides in years, which appears to be true. There have, at times, been lapses in form this term but time and again the Gunners have come back with impressive showings.
Whilst they are not in the ideal position to take on Conte’s Chelsea there is a solid base there to launch into the business end of the season.
The main focus of deals at The Emirates this month has been in house, tying down existing talent to contract extensions. The likes of Olivier Giroud penning new deals may not be big name extensions that fans are pining for, but it is clever business.
New additions this month are always exciting for fans but are not always a good thing for the playing staff.
Wenger and the powers that be in north London are spot on to be securing the core of their side as opposed to unsettling it. The wrong deal at the wrong time can throw off the remainder of the season, whilst solidifying for the run-in is more than clever business.