Is this Arsenal star really worth £40m?

Arsene Wenger has heaped praise on his £40m man, but it isn’t Mesut Ozil. The Arsenal boss says Francis Coquelin is a top player and likened him to big money signing. When asked about his transfer plans, and specifically about the defensive midfield position, Wenger was quick to point out that he believes in Coquelin, and that the player has earned his place in the side.

“The world has changed,” Wenger said. “The appreciation today of the quality of a player is just down with the money you spend.”

“If we had bought Coquelin at Christmas for £40m, everyone would say ‘what a signing’. I am sorry he didn’t cost any money, he is still a good player.”

“What is a player worth today? Nobody knows really. I just wanted to say that if we had bought (Coquelin), nobody would complain that he was a good player.”

Wenger did however stop short of ruling out a signing in that position.

“Nobody would dispute that his performances have been convincing and that he is ready for a fight even if somebody comes in. He has shown he has the capacity to play for us and play a big part in the success of the team. I extended his contract, that means I believe in him.”

Some praise that is from Wenger, £40m is nothing to sneeze at. It is great to see the boss showing such faith in his player, and will surely do Coquelin’s confidence a world of good. While that sum is a bit astronomical by my estimation, I would say Francis isn’t too far from it in the current form he is in. He has been absolutely sensational since his return, and it would take a hefty bid to prize him away at the moment.

He is the clear choice in defensive midfield at the moment, and is invaluable to the side, so far that reason I have no qualms with Wenger’s hypothetical transfer sum.

What do you think gooners? Is Francis worth £40m?