Gervinho could be Arsenal’s first high profile departure this summer, as reports emerging in London suggest initial talks are taking place between the club and AS Roma, after speculation of a summer move to Italy earlier in the transfer window.

Arsene Wenger has been working on a tight transfer budget in the past few years, but has a realistic chance of securing big name signings this summer. Club chief executive Ivan Gazidis gave fans and the manager hope, suggesting that a big kitty was prepared for Wenger to spend on players he believed in. With Santi Cazorla and Lukas Podolski making their presence felt in the squad, there is little room for complacency, and Wenger will not settle for anything but the best if an addition is made.

However, there are certain players who have yet to really fit into the squad, and Gervinho is in that category. The Ivorian has had a stop start career at the Emirates Stadium, and never established his name in the starting lineup. The striker played as a part winger, attracting play to the flanks, and using his quick feet and pace to get past the defenders. This strategy was read by Barclays Premier League managers, and Gervinho’s method of attack was caged by the opposition, restricting goals. This left Wenger with no choice but to keep the striker on the bench, and try flooding the midfield instead.

Gervinho began his career as a youth academy player at FC Beveren, before signing a professional contract with the club. Then, French side Le Mans came calling, and the striker was signed in 2007, where he spent two years. After impressing in the French league, Lille showed interest in the player, and the 26-year old made a switch to the giants in 2009. He spent two years at the club, scoring 28 goals in 67 appearances. His performances for Ivory Coast helped his cause, and Gervinho was signed by Arsenal in 2011. After a good start, his career in London has not progressed as he would like, with just 9 goals in 45 Premier League appearances.