Flamini linked

A new transfer rumour today, and an unexpected one: a possible loan deal for Mathieu Flamini, of AC Milan but formerly of Arsenal. It came about this morning - apparently Sky Sports News 'understands' that he is 'set' to join us on loan for the rest of the season. Now that doesn't mean that it's definitely going to happen, but Sky do have a decent track record with getting these stories.

Keen to follow up, I asked John Cross - the Mirror's Arsenal expert - if he knew anything. He replied:

Def in for him, maybe right back?

So I do think there's something in this one.

I think he would be a very valuable addition to the squad. What we are crying out for is cover and improvement at both left and right-back. Flamini played the former position for Arsenal and the latter for Milan. He can also play holding midfield, and while we are good for options there now the fact is that with Nigel de Jong and Gareth Barry looking exhausted, Patrick Vieira unfit and Vincent Kompany busy in defence we would benefit from an addition more than you might first think.

There's a necessary short-term element to January recruiting. Buying young players and re-structuring the squad can wait until the summer. For now we need extra bodies and experience, as we attempt to juggle progress in three competitions. So it is important we get players who can come straight into the side. Flamini played 102 Premier League games in his spell with Arsenal - 153 in all competitions, and so - like his mentor and predecessor at Arsenal Patrick Vieira - he should, fitness permitting, be able to slot straight into our side.

It's not a done deal yet, and there are more important things to think about today, but this is a deal I'd love to see go through.