Gerrard would be a fab replacement, says Merson

FORMER Arsenal star Paul Merson believes Gunners boss Arsene Wenger should target Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard if Cesc Fabregas quits the north London outfit.

On Tuesday Arsenal captain Fabregas told Wenger he wants to quit Arsenal and rejoin Barcelona.

Merson says Arsenal, who have won nothing since 2005, have become also-rans in recent seasons and believes Wenger needs to buy established stars rather than promising youngsters.

“I worry about the future of Arsenal,’’ Merson said. “They don’t win trophies anymore and they’re selling their best players. Where are they going?

“What they need to do is sell Fabregas and take the money up to Liverpool to buy Gerrard. He’s the man who could come in and immediately command respect and help the team win those crucial games they have been losing. Who else is there?’’

“They need to buy established players who can come in, hit the ground running and win things, players like Gerrard.

“If Chelsea sold Frank Lampard they’d still challenge for the title but Arsenal won’t stand a chance if they sell Fabregas.’’