Source: Daily_Mail
Arsenal leading Marouane Chamakh chase as Liverpool concede defeat
Arsenal have emerged as front runners to tie up a deal for Marouane Chamakh after Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez conceded defeat in his pursuit of the Bordeaux striker.[LNB]The Morocco international is available on a free transfer in the summer and reports in January suggested a deal was already in place to bring the player to Anfield.[LNB]However, only last week Chamakh expressed his interest in joining Arsenal, and Benitez believes any chance of securing the player is now dead.[LNB]The 26-year-old has reportedly hit out at Liverpool for being 'fussy'over contract negotiations but Benitez is angry at the breakdown of thedeal.[LNB] Hands off: Chamakh (right) vies for the ball with Boulogne player Bira Dembele[LNB]'I think that we will not sign him - but I will not say [any more],' said the Spaniard.[LNB]Gunner boss Arsene Wenger, though, remained coy on the subject ahead of his sides clash with Liverpool on Wednesday.[LNB]He said: 'We are talking to nobody. We are focusing on tomorrow's game. [LNB]'I believe he talks to many clubs, what he is entitled to do. He is free to sign a pre-contract. [LNB]'He is free to sign where he wants but I cannot interfere in that.'[LNB]The Gunners are in desperate need of a recognisable frontman after seeing their title challenge all but evaporate over the last week because of a bluntless in attack and naivity in defence. [LNB]News of a deal for Chamakh to join in the summer would leave a bitter taste for some fans who believe it is too little, too late.[LNB]The Emirates Stadium faithful are angry the manager didn't move to strengthen his forward ranks considering the long-term injuries to Robin van Persie and Nicklas Bendtner, plus the poor form of Eduardo, Theo Walcott and Carlos Vela.[LNB] Wenger dismisses claims that hitman Chamakh has sealed move to ArsenalChamakh shuns Liverpool approach with confession of Arsenal dreamSerbia international Milan Jovanovic set to join Liverpool in the summerWenger has £30m to spend at Arsenal... and his title rivals can't splash outBordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh edges ever closer to Liverpool moveARSENAL FC
