Source: Team_Talk
Chamakh closes in on Gunners switch
ordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh has reportedly arrived in London to put the finishing touches to his proposed move to Arsenal.[LNB] The Gunners have been tracking the Moroccan frontman for some time, with speculation linking him with a switch to Emirates Stadium on numerous occasions.[LNB]It appears as though Gunners manager Arsene Wenger may finally be about to get his man, with the French coach recently admitting that an agreement was close.[LNB]Should he agree terms with Arsenal, Chamakh will move to England as a free agent as his contract at Bordeaux is set to expire.[LNB]The 26-year-old has been a regular source of goals in the French top flight over recent years and has often expressed a desire to test himself at a higher level.[LNB]He may be about to get that opportunity in the Premier League, with it seemingly only a matter of time before he secures a dream move to Arsenal.[LNB]While the Gunners are delighted to be closing on a top target, Bordeaux have been left disappointed at the prospect of seeing their most potent attacking weapon head for pastures new.[LNB]Club president Jean-Louis Triaud has revealed that the Ligue 1 outfit did everything in their power to keep the African ace at Stade Chaban Delmas, but accepts there is nothing more he can do.[LNB]"We have proposed extensions to Marouane. Our first proposal was on January 1, 2009," he said.[LNB]"He said he never spoke to Arsene Wenger. But I find it strange that he could be recruited by Arsenal without talking to the coach.[LNB]"I have had two difficult transfers since I arrived: Wiltord and Chamakh. These two departures relate to Arsenal.[LNB]"Had he accepted our proposal, he could have improved his contract.[LNB]"I think he was surrounded and badly misguided. I did not appreciate at all how it went. As president, I resent it."[LNB]Triaud, though, has no personal animosity towards Chamakh.[LNB]He added: "Personally, I owe him all my affection. He is a lovely boy. He is a warrior and a fighter. He has not cheated.[LNB]"I wish him success at Arsenal. I will see him again with pleasure.[LNB]"I have great affection and gratitude for him. He brought a lot of things at the club. But I still don't appreciate the way he left."
