According to reports, Arsenal are close to finalising a three year deal with Chelsea midfielder Joe Cole. Cole’s representatives held a meeting with Arsenal officials to negotiate the deal yesterday.
The deal is expected to be finalized soon, and an announcement is expected before the World Cup begins on June 11th.
The report emerged after Tottenham manager Harry Redknapp said that he believes Cole has signed a deal with a club.
“It looks to me that someone’s going to make a great free transfer,”
“I genuinely don’t know who that is, but I don’t think it’s going to be Tottenham.”
“I’ve got a feeling—and I may be wrong—that he’s already agreed a deal with someone.”
“I’m a big fan of Joe’s, and I would be interested if he didn’t stay at Chelsea, but the feedback we’ve had is that he might well have already done something.”
Cole’s contract negotiations with Chelsea stalled some time ago, apparently due to the fact that Cole wanted £100,000 a week wages, from his current £80,000 a week deal.
Cole also failed to establish himself as a first team player under manager Carlo Ancelotti.
If true, the news will be a massive boost for the Arsenal fans, who were left shocked when inspirational captain Cesc Fabregas revealed that he wants to join Barcelona.
Cole will be a welcome addition to an Arsenal squad that lacks English talent.
A young sensation, Cole started his career at West Ham and was touted as one of the hottest prospects in the game as a 16-year-old. He helped the Hammers win the FA Youth Cup, but when the Hammers were relegated from the top flight in 2003 he signed with Chelsea for £6.6 million.
Technically one of the best players around, he has a great passing range and his creativity can unlock a defence.
He can play on either wing and as an attacking midfielder. His game will suite Arsenal’s style of play and will be an excellent addition to the squad.
But the signing may mean that Arsenal have all but resigned to losing Cesc Fabregas to Barcelona. Arsenal have rejected an initial bid from the Catalan side, maintaining that their captain is not for sale.
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It would be a great transfer but I’m sure that won’t happen.