Arsenal in advanced talks with Bayern Munich for French dazzler
Sources in both Bavaria and London are suggesting that Arsenal are in advanced talks with Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery in a move that could cost the North London club £22m.
The Bundesliga giants are looking to offload the France international this summer after what has been a frustrating year for the club and player with Bayern not winning the Bundesliga and 28 year old Ribery once again injured for most of the season.
The club are also looking to freshen the side up and also fear that Ribery’s history – issues with an underage prostitute – it will be best to cut their losses. The Frenchman has always been keen to join up with Arsene Wenger but it will take a brave man to purchase a player who can be so prone to injury. The price had always seemed the biggest barrier for Arsenal but with Munich looking to cut their losses, the price that was quoted last year – anything from £40m to £70m – is a thing of the past.
With talks believed to be ongoing a decision will only be made on Ribery’s future once Arsenal agree the right fee for Cesc Fabregas. Should Barcelona continue to undervalue Fabregas then the Captain shall remain, however should both clubs agree a fee suitable to both parties then a good percentage of that will be used to pay Bayern Munich.
There had been talk earlier in the year of a possible swap deal involving Andrei Arshavin which could still be on the cards although sources claim the only big player that could be sold this summer will be that of the Emirates captain.
With many believing that a central defender and midfielder are required urgently, should Arsenal and Bayern agree then it shall certainly look as though Arsene is concentrating on the best form of defence – attack.
