Is Wenger lining up move to bring Marseille man to the Emirates?
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Hatem Ben Arfa ‘definitely leaving Marseille’ as Arsenal join transfer race
Marseille star Hatem Ben Arfa looks destined for a transfer to the Premier League this summer after telling his club he wants out – but his original suitors Newcastle United are rumoured to be facing competition from Arsenal.France forward Hatem Ben Arfa wants to quit Marseille – with Arsenal and Newcastle circling
The versatile French international has been accused of dropping his club “in the ****” by coach Didier Deschamps after going on a one-man strike to force their hand before the end of the month.
And despite consistent interest from the Magpies, Gunners manager Arsene Wenger is now thought to have made an approach to Marseille for the £12million-rated forward.
More: Arsenal transfer news and rumours
Italian side AC Milan are also rumoured to be interested in the 23-year-old, but Wenger would expect to jump to the front of the queue with a firm bid. (The Metro)
The Hatem Ben Arfa saga appears to be taking another twist, with a “surprise” English club now battling with Werder Bremen for the Olympique Marseille winger’s signature.
According to the Web site of the Marseille La Provence newspaper, the English club are not Newcastle, who have longed been linked with the player
“Negotiations are progressing seriously and Hatem has a great chance to play Saturday,” said his adviser, Michael Ouazine. “We are finalizing the contract.” (IMScouting)
Some sources believe that the club Hatem Ben Arfa is lining to sign for may well be Arsenal. Arsene Wenger has long been an admirer of the 23 year old attacking midfielder who can work well in a number of positions and perhaps most effective on the left wing and perhaps he believes now is the time to pounce before someone else snaps up the talented French international.
Whilst the north London club is clearly looking to beef up their defensive options it is also true that Wenger is a huge fan of the former Lyon man and may feel that a move for the Marseille man could be best served now. After all any deal could involve loaning the player back out again for the remainder of the season. Also add into the equation that Samir Nasri is out injured at present.
Could Arsenal be the “suprise” English club?
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