Arsene Wenger is never far away from surprises and despite signing just three players this season, the Arsenal boss was looking at former Manchester United defender Jonny Evans last season. The news came as shock to most of the football fans around the world as Tony Pulis confirmed the interest from the Arsenal camp, in Evans.
Evans could be set to join former rivals Manchester City after manager Pep Guardiola is looking to strengthen his defense for a crack at the Premier League title. But West Bromwich Albion manager Tony Pulis has confirmed Wenger’s interest in the 29 year old Northern Irishman.
Evans has spent two seasons at the Hawthorns after leaving Old Trafford as he helped West Brom to a 10th place finish in the league. However, Pulis mentioned that his prized asset was on the verge on joining north-London side Arsenal last year until he decided to remain at the club.
Pulis stated that the player did have a chance to join the Gunners though he did not, along with an interest now from the Etihad.
He further added that Manchester City seem different, as they will hoping to win the league title, the Champions League, and even the FA Cup, which the Arsenal faithful would not like.
Despite that he added that the decision was not an easy one and there were quite a few complications to the deal.
The Hawthorns did turn down an offer that was made, as they were not happy with the kind of offer they must have received. Also, Pulis talked about what could happen if they make an approach once again, with a substantial offer.
“It is market forces. We don’t want to sell him, or need to sell him, we are not desperate to get the money in, so it would have to be a very, very good offer. Then we would sit down and talk to Jonny about the situation.”
“It is irrelevant whether he wants to stay or doesn’t want to stay. The most important thing is everyone understands he is one of our best players. That is what we’ll try to do, keep him here.”
“Jonny’s fine, he understands the situation. Until all parties agree nothing will happen. He is happy here, he has just been made captain.”
Maybe Wenger was looking for someone in the league who has had experience winning the title as well as well as someone who could be a force at the back. Either way, Evans looks likely to remain a West Brom player till the transfer window shuts.
With Calum Chambers and Rob Holding at his disposal however, Wenger may not need a new center-back despite Gabriel Paulista leaving the club for Spanish side Valencia.
The Current Situation-
The loss at the weekend makes the game against Liverpool quite crucial for the north London outfit, as well as the Merseyside outfit, who are unbeaten so far. United have already scored 8 goals, with 4 points and are leading the league table at the moment.
The loss for Wenger’s team gives the Red Devils an advantage and with Chelsea finally getting 3 points at Wembley, it meant that Spurs lost 3 as well. Mourinho will want to keep this momentum and will look to build a lead at the top right from the start.
Interesting days to follow and BTP will surely report the stories.
