Arsenal made few signings during a transfer window that saw a number of players leave for pastures new. They also concluded the Ashley Cole saga that seemed to go on forever. The £30 million previously offered to Arsenal would have given them more opportunity to strengthen their depleted squad. In the end they were forced to settle for William Gallas and £5million right on the midnight deadline. Not great business for Arsenal, but then their form is not good in these matters, Pires, Campbell, Parlour all leaving with no return for the club.

However they Arsenal board have made good, swapping a lightweight, wantaway winger in José Antonio Reyes for a bullish Brazilian hardman who can play in a number of positions in a loan deal with Real Madrid that could see the Brazilian become a permanent fixture in the number nine (9) jersey.

They also managed to convince Villareal into paying £2 million for Pascal Cygan, which can only be seen as good business when William Gallas, who will be wearing the number three (3) shirt, will make sure there is increased competition for the central defensive places in the starting eleven.