Petr Cech could win Arsenal the title, says John Terry
Chelsea skipper John Terry believes goalkeeper Petr Cech could prove a title-winning acquisition for Arsenal should the Gunners complete the prospective signing of the veteran Czech Republic stopper.
Cech has won four Premier League titles during 11 years at Stamford Bridge but is tipped to join Arsenal in search of first-team football after losing his place as Chelsea’s No1 to Thibaut Courtois last season.
Arsene Wenger’s side finished third in the Premier League last term, 12 points adrift of champions Chelsea, and Terry insists the capture of Cech could be sufficient to bridge that gap.
“There is obviously talk of Arsenal signing Petr and if they do get Pete, that will strengthen them for sure. He will save them 12 to 15 points a season,” said Terry.
“I am sure if he does leave the club, which nobody wants to see, but we understand he wants to play football, he is going to be sorely missed. He will improve whatever side he goes to.”
Should Arsenal conclude a deal for the 33-year-old ex-Rennes keeper, Cech’s first game for his new club could be against former employers Chelsea in the Community Shield on 2 August.
Former Holland goalkeeper Maarten Stekelenburg, meanwhile, last night joined Southampton on a season-long loan deal from Championship side Fulham. The 32-year-old was on-loan at Monaco last season.
Former Crystal Palace boss Tony Pulis strengthened West Brom’s squad ahead of the new campaign by sealing the £1.5m transfer of Republic of Ireland winger James McClean from Wigan.
Premier League newcomers Norwich City also bolstered their squad by signing DR Congo international midfielder Youssouf Mulumbu, who was released by West Brom in May, on a free transfer.