Sky Sports pundit Charlie Nicholas has insisted that Manchester United midfielder Michael Carrick would be an ideal signing for his former club Arsenal.
The Gunners continue to struggle with injuries this season, with Santi Cazorla and Francis Coquelin joining Jack Wilshere as long-term absentees.
As a result, that has left boss Arsene Wenger light in midfield, and it is expected that the Frenchman will address the problem in the January transfer window.
While speculation continues to link the club with various targets from around Europe, Nicholas believes that they need to look closer to home as Carrick is a viable option to bring some experience, steel and creativity in that area of the pitch.
“The one key position is a holding midfield player,” he told Soccer Saturday. “I don’t know why he (Arsene Wenger) wouldn’t go for anyone with Premier League experience.
“I would be amazed if (Mikel) Arteta isn’t finished as a player, (Mathieu) Flamini will probably go and (Tomas) Rosicky is probably done. That’s three players with great experience between them.
“It makes sense for me to go for someone between the age of 30-32. I think there are a few about and if I was Arsenal I would go for Carrick. He’s not got the legs and pace but I think you need somebody with experience who has authority and gets the ball and passes it.”
In contrast, Paul Merson suggested that Southampton star Victor Wanyama would be a better option for his former club if they are intent on strengthening next month as he add something that is currently missing from the lineup.
Arsenal missed out on the chance to go top of the table after a heavy 4-0 defeat by the Saints on Saturday, but they will be looking to bounce back immediately when they host Bournemouth at the Emirates on Monday.