Gio off on season-long loan to Barca

Arsenal agreed to a loan deal with FC Barcelona to send Giovanni Van Bronckhorst to the Catalan giants for the remainder of the season. Rumor has it that there is a possible transfer provision in the deal that will keep Gio playing at the Nou Camp well beyond May.

This is a boost for Gio’s international career, as he needs the playing time to get a chance to be a part of Holland’s plans for 2004. That being said, I still can’t help but scratch my head at this. Arsenal have already sent several young players out on loan deals, and from what I know about life in the Premiership, not to mention Europe, the team will need all the cover it can get. I have faith in Arsene Wenger, but this one perplexes me.

Good luck Gio!