Rumor has it that Wenger is considering some permutation of a trade that would have Cesc Fabregas for Real Madrid's Gonzalo Higuain (plus some cash?).
And yes, you read that right.
This move is perplexing, but not so much on Arsenal's end, rather it's Real who "got some 'splaining to do." Instead of Higuain, why not try and offload Benzema? Seriously, in what world does it make sense to trade your starting (and in form) striker, in order to keep your sullen, inflexible back-up? Madrid is finally linking up through the middle, and, to my mind, that has been a direct consequence of Benzema's play up front.
If it's a financial calculation (the high fee to pry Fabregas away from the Emirates will be more difficult to swing if the player were obvi Benzie instead of Gonzalo), Perez, Pelligrini et al should look to build on what they already have (with or without Fabregas), not dismantle it, because, for Madrid, gaining Cesc, irregardless of how wonderful he is, is not enough to outweigh the loss of Higuain.
On the other side, assuming Wenger is in his right mind, some may ask how could he ever agree to sell Cesc? Not so fast; after a quick review of the facts (see below), it is not an entirely insane proposition.
Fact: Wenger has long admired Higuain from afar.
Fact: Arsenal has significant offensive frailties, from Van Persie's inability to stay healthy for an entire season to Bendtner making stupid decisions at every opportunity, all of which has been compounded by the summer sale of Adebayor.
Fact: Gonzalo could be a quick fix for said issues.
Fact: Finally, and perhaps most importantly, Wenger has never shied away from the sale of a trademark star (see: Henry, Thierry). Of all English managers, he is consistently confident in his youth ("Young Gunners," anyone?) and unafraid of a (smart) gamble.
I'm not saying it's going to happen. I'm just saying don't be surprised if it does. Whether Cesc survives the away fixture to Barca is another issue entirely....
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