Arsenal Could Sign Another Goalkeeper to Cover Wojciech Szczesny

Arsenal’s defense has been very impressive for much of 2013. After faltering mid-way through the season the Gunners have stepped in up again. Some of this credit has to be given to goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny.

He has been in outstanding form since stepping in after Lukasz Fabianksi cracked a rib against Norwich City.  Allowing only a single goal, since being put back into the first team, Szczesny has looked reliable. He even made a key save against Queens Park Rangers this weekend that potentially saved Arsenal’s Champions League ambitions. So with Szczesny playing well and Arsenal’s defense thriving as a whole, do the Gunners need to sign a goalkeeper in the summer?

Szczesny’s return to form doesn’t mask his erratic play over the season. Up and down, up and down, Szczesny has had trouble maintaining consistent play. It’s definitely a reason Arsenal is in this fight for fourth place and not firmly in control of their destiny.

A better or more consistent keeper may have stolen a match or two for the Gunners. Still, Szczesny is young and could mature into a top keeper in the coming years. To give up on a young talent this soon, seems reckless. Look at how quickly David De Gea went from being unproven to pretty exceptional. Who’s to say that won’t happen with Szczesny?

There have been rumors of possible replacements for Szczesny. Asmir Begovic, Stoke City’s current goalkeeper, has been mentioned. After a phenomenal season, Arsenal will not be the only team chasing Begovic’s signature.

Another name that has popped up is Barcelona keeper Victor Valdes. The embattled goalkeeper has informed Barcelona he will not renew his contract when it runs out in 2014. So they will be looking to sell him if they want any sort of return. Valdes is often given a bad rep, but is definitely a solid keeper who deserves praise.

Another Premier League keeper is also on Arsenal’s radar. Simon Mignolet has been a revelation for Sunderland this season. Much like Begovic, his performances will have teams clamoring for his services.

All of these players are more attractive options at goalkeeper than Szczesny. They are much more consistent and have also proven at the highest level they can play well. Begovic and Mignolet are Premier League experienced just like Szczesny, and have the edge in quality over him. Valdes has been a fixture in one of the world’s best sides for nine seasons. I think Arsenal should pull the trigger this summer and go after one of these big names. It could be the difference between European football and nothing.