Benitez target: France winger Florent
Malouda
There has been precious little for Arsenal fans to get
excited about this summer but this morning's edition of The
Independent brings hope by declaring that the Gunners are ready to
hijack Liverpool's attempt to sign Florent Malouda.
The winger's anticipated transfer to Anfield 'has stalled over
personal terms' and the Indy claims that 'Talks are expected to
take place as early as tomorrow over a £10.2m move from the French
champions Lyon to Arsenal'.
'Liverpool's manager, Rafael Benitez, wanted to make Malouda the
first of his major signings this summer and there is a growing
frustration from the Spaniard that nothing has been secured. The
longer the delay, according to sources close to the player, the
greater the chance he may go elsewhere.'
Arsenal's interest in the Frenchman has been rekindled after Franck
Ribery agreed a deal with Bayern Munich - the good-looking winger
is expected to officially join the German outfit later today.
Another reputed target, Ryan Babel of Ajax, has been discounted
after Arsene Wenger grew unsure 'that Babel is of the highest
standard'.
'If Malouda does arrive at the Emirates Stadium, it will be
intriguing to see where he fits into Wenger's plans and what it
means for Alexander Hleb and Tomas Rosicky. It also heightens the
chances of Fredrik Ljungberg, who has been told he can go, leaving
the club on a free transfer. Wenger himself will conduct the
negotiations with Malouda if the deal goes ahead and his strong
relationship with the out-going Lyon coach Gerard Houllier may be
an advantage.'
