By Graeme Bailey - Tweet me: <a href='http://bit.ly/lRx0Da' class='instorylink'>@skygraemebailey</a>
Saturday 18 June 2011 10:52, UK
Image:Gervinho: Lille confirm Arsenal contact with Ivorian keen to play in England
Lille have confirmed that they are set to hold talks with Arsenal over Gervinho.
Gunners look set to push ahead with deal for Gervinho
Lille have confirmed that they are set to hold talks with Arsenal over Gervinho.
The French champions revealed earlier this week that they would refuse to sell the Ivorian star to another Ligue 1 club, ruling out a move to Paris St Germain, who had made contact.
But England has always been Gervinho's preferred destination and Arsenal have long been favourites to land him ahead of the likes of Newcastle, Manchester City, Liverpool and Tottenham.
Lille's general manager Frederic Paquet has now confirmed they are set to hold talks with Arsenal, who have made contact.
"He actually wants to go," Paquet admitted to RMC.
"We have developed contacts with Arsenal. We will soon discuss with them to see what they want.
"He expressed his desire to leave for England so we'll see what will happen.
"Gervinho chose to leave for England, so that limits the scope of the situation.
"We will meet soon with Arsenal, see what they offer - but he is a player of value."
