We Were In For Howedes

Apparently.

"Milan and Arsenal have really been keen on my services, this is what I am able to confirm," the World Cup winner told kicker-Sportmagazin.

"Still I have not opted against them, I have decided in favour of Schalke. My job is not done here yet.

"And, especially after last season, I told myself I do not want to leave this way. I am a key player of this club."
http://www.standard.co.uk/sport/football/i-turned-down-a-transfer-to-arsenal-confirms-schalke-defender-benedikt-howedes-10332728.html


This would back up a lot of what I've been saying all season in regards to Mertesacker. It's hard to see Howedes being anything but a direct replacement for the BFG as Koscielny, Paulista and Chambers would surely be nailed on in their roles.

I wonder if Wenger will make a concerted effort to replace Per, or if he just felt Howedes was a player he wanted specifically. I love Mertesacker as a person, but I do feel it's time to upgrade on him.