Sebastian Rode: The German to shape Arsenal's midfield (Video)

If the defeat to Bayern Munich highlighted anything to Arsenal fans, it's the need to bring in another midfielder. Granted, Jack Wilshere had an impressive performance regardless of the defeat, while Santi Cazorla struggled to stamp his creative authority in the encounter, but Mikel Arteta showcased his inability to grab a game by the scruff of the neck when up against some of Football's bigger teams.

The Gunners have been linked with a host of big name players in recent weeks to fill the void in the middle of the park, with Toulouse midfielder Etienne Capoue one of those supposedly close to making a move to the Emirates Stadium when the transfer window reopens at the end of the season.

It's no shock to hear that Arsenal have been linked with a move for Eintracht Frankfurt midfielder Sebastian Rode in that case. The 22-year-old has played a pivotal role in in his sides rise up the Bundesliga to fourth.

Furthermore, his position – shielding the back four – is one that the club haven't filled properly since the departure of Patrick Vieira and with Arteta continuing to struggle in the role, Rode could be exactly the player the Gunners need.

On top of that, he is likely to be cheaper than Capoue, something that would appeal to the board as they look to increase their revenue over the next 12 months. His young age will only see Arsenal view him as an important arrival and a player that could bring out the best in Cazorla and Wilshere.  

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