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The Mirror reported last weekend that Arsenal are considering offering striker Danny Welbeck a new contract.
The former Manchester United star has been plagued by injury problems at the Emirates Stadium and has not played for the club in the Premier League since November.
Nevertheless, the report claims that the Gunners have been impressed with his rehabilitation and are considering handing him a new contract as Premier League clubs continue to circle.
West Ham United, Newcastle United and Everton are all touted as potential suitors.
But should Arsenal be giving a new contract to a player who has scored 32 goals in 126 games for the club? Football FanCast writers give their verdicts…
Luke Glanville
“For me, Arsenal shouldn’t even consider offering Danny Welbeck a new deal. Yes, on his day we all know the talent he has, but injuries have plagued his career and they’re not suddenly going to stop at the age of 28. A new deal for the Englishman would be a huge waste of money for Unai Emery’s Gunners and one they should steer well clear of. The north Londoners already have the likes of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Alexandre Lacazette in their ranks; thinking that Welbeck is needed would be brainless. If they do require a back-up forward, someone they can rely on should be chosen. In the nicest possible way, Welbeck’s time at the Emirates should be up.”
Billy Meyers
“Absolutely not. Arsenal already need to perform a daunting overhaul on a side simply not good enough to compete with England’s elite clubs and offering Danny Welbeck a new deal would be a huge risk. In truth, Unai Emery would be shooting himself in the foot with that call. The Englishman has also missed a large chunk of this season with a serious ankle injury, so it would perhaps be better to wait until Welbeck proves his fitness before offering him a new deal.”
Matt Dawson
“Arsenal need to sort out their wage structure but a new contract for Danny Welbeck must be at the height of their priorities. His early season form was fantastic and, given the lack of wide options at the club, he can still be a big asset to the Gunners. Their performances of late have lacked any directness and that’s exactly what Welbeck can bring. Yes, his end product is questionable but he’s the perfect squad player and simply has to be kept.”