With all the hype surrounding the possible arrival or either Ganzalo Higuain or Luis Suarez, the Gunners have suddenly made signing a central defender their priority, since Vermaelen was ruled out for three months with a back problem.
With the Belgian out of action for the time being, the Gunners are left with only two recognised centre-backs, Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker, since Sebastien Squillaci was released and Johan Djourou was allowed to go out on loan to Hamburg. While the pair showed terrific form at the backend of last season, Wenger realises he needs at least one more quality central defender to seriously challenge for the title.
His attention has once again been drawn towards South Wales where Ashley Williams plies his trade with Swansea. According to Metro, Arsenal are ready to renew their interest in the defender due to Vermaelen’s injury.
Williams has been one of the most consistent Premier League defenders since the Swans were promoted two seasons ago. His impressive performances at the back helped Swansea capture the Capital One Cup last season, defeating the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool in the process.
It is understood that Swansea coach Michael Laudrup doesn’t want to lose the player who he recently installed as club captain taking over from Gary Monk, but Swansea may be unable to resist if Arsenal make a big money offer.
The Gunners have money to burn in this transfer window, but have surprisingly just snapped up 20-year-old Frenchman Yaya Sanogo on a free transfer. Big money signings were expected and craved by the Gunners faithful but Higuain and Suarez seem a distant reality now.
However, while Williams may not represent a marquee signing, he is certainly a necessary signing since Arsenal will really have to shore up their defence if they really believe in ending their trophy drought next season.
Arsenal can offer Champions League football to Williams and Swansea are not expected to stand in the way of a possible transfer if Arsenal can match their valuation of the player.