Arsenal linked with three signings after opening day draw

As the clock wound down on a disappointing but not disastrous 0-0 opening day draw at Newcastle, Arsenal’s travelling support implored Arsene Wenger to open his chequebook, and the tabloids expect him to listen.

Neither captain Cesc Fabregas or last season’s star man Samir Nasri appeared at St James’ Park, with both expected to leave the club within the next few days, most likely to Barcelona and Manchester City respectively.

Their exits should land the Gunners, who are rated almost afterthoughts in the title race at 12/1 to finish first on Ladbrokes over £50 million and unless the majority is reinvested, fans’ faith in Wenger is liable to dwindle further.

The Mail on Sunday claim that one way that he will attempt to get them back on side is by attempting to push through a move for Everton and England centre back Phil Jagielka.

Arsenal are already believed to have made one offer for the 28-year-old, who is said to be interested but reluctant to force his way out in the manner Joleon Lescott was perceived to have for Manchester City two years ago.

The problem is that David Moyes is thought to rate the defender at £20 million though, and Wenger will be reluctant to pay so much for a player both relatively unproven at the top level and soon to turn 29.

The Metro are linking the Gunners to two Ligue 1 stars, Marseille winger Andre Ayew and Sochaux midfielder Marvin Martin, who drew comparisons to Zinedine Zidane after scoring twice off the bench on his France debut in June.

Both men look like being available at more easily affordable prices, with Ayew reported to have a £11.5 million release clause in his contract and Martin’s valued in a similar range, though Lorient are reluctant to sell.