Petr Cech imminent Arsenal arrival to trigger transfer flurry at Emirates

Arsenal are on the verge of signing goalkeeper Petr Cech from Chelsea, which is likely to lead to further transfer activity as Arsene Wenger begins his summer recruitment.

The Czech Republic international will come in as number one and is a significant missing piece of the jigsaw for the Gunners, who have arguably needed to strengthen in at least two key areas for a number of years.

At his best, Cech developed a solid on-field relationship with a number of centre backs, including John Terry and this was without a doubt key to delivering a number of trophies for the Blues.

While there are question marks over whether Arsenal, 5/1 with Coral to win the Premier League next term, need to upgrade at centre back, Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny have more than enough ability to form a firm foundation with the incoming stopper.

Although this is a story which has rumbled on for a number of months, it means nothing until the transfer actually happens. If so, then as like last summer with the capture of Alexis Sanchez, expect everyone to sit up and take notice.

What this signing will do is act as a benchmark for attracting more top players throughout the summer, who should realise that the Gunners personify a force to be reckoned with across Europe.

The fee for Cech isn’t likely to be more than £14m; a lot for a 33-year-old; however, he is an exception and still regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in world football. This could be £14m that makes the difference between the Premier League title and another finish in the Champions League, and they are expected to recoup £4m by selling David Ospina to Turkish side Fenerbahce.