Summer Signings Report Card: Arsenal and Chelsea

Shifting focus to the Premier League now, today's post is about Arsenal and Chelsea's transfer dealings. Both of them were rumored to spend big and names like Ribery and Aguero were thrown about. Let's see how good their dealings were:

Arsenal:

1. Thomas Vermaelen: The Arsenal squad was crying out for some experience in defense and Wenger brings in a 24 year old kid who played in the Dutch league? Many said that this was evidence that Wenger had finally gone nuts. But, as usual, there is no fooling Wenger's keen eye for talent. Vermaelen has been a sensation this season. He has fitted into the backline as if he was always there and is the leading goalscoring defender. Tall and strong, with a no-nonsense approach, this signing is typically "Arsene'.

Overall Grade: A+, everything that you want a transfer to be- cheap, effective and complete.

2. Sol Campbell: Some would say that Wenger did bring in experience in the team in the form of this signing. It was quite a coincidence that Campbell was training with Arsenal when an injury crisis struck them and he was signed on. Now, this guy is 35 and he was never known for his pace even in his best days. His is still technically good and that is the only salvaging bit about this transfer.

Overall Grade: B-, somewhat effective, but it's quite early to judge the full impact that he will have.

Chelsea:

1. Yuri Zhirkov: A costly signing at 18M pounds and primarily a left back, many felt it was a bit too much for a backup. Not only that, he was a player who deserved more than a backup role. A few injuries have limited his appearances, though Ancelotti's tactics have seen him play everywhere along the left side of the ground. Quick and an excellent crosser, his skills were never in doubt but the question remains as to the lack of opportunities for him. He's made only 11 appearances this season and as such failed to make an impact.

Overall Grade: B-, again his effectiveness is in question, but he can prove me wrong.

2. Daniel Sturridge: A controversial transfer (Chelsea must be used to those by now), this highly rated English youngster cam from the stables of Manchester City and has had a fair run in the Chelsea first team too. After a total of 15 appearances so far this season, he has scored 4 goals for his new team. He was voted the Best Young Player at City and everyone agrees that the kid is talented. We have all seen talented youngsters lose their way if they join a big club, let's hope this one isn't.

Overall grade: B, cannot rate him on effectiveness, but a youngster is always a welcome addition to the ageing Chelsea squad.