Clichy jumped at new deal

Reported interest from Italy did not tempt Arsenal left-back

By James Dall   Last updated: 24th June 2008

Clichy jumped at new deal

Clichy: Did not contemplate move

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Gael Clichy has explained how he had no hesitation in penning a new long-term deal with Arsenal.

After another excellent season at Emirates Stadium, left-back Clichy had reportedly attracted the attentions of Serie A giants Roma and Juventus.

However, the 22-year-old France international ended the speculation surrounding his future by inking a new contract, which expires in 2012, last week.

And Clichy has revealed that he always had his heart on extending his time at Arsenal, despite the rumoured interest from abroad.

"To be honest, I saw it in the newspapers," Clichy told Football365.fr. "I told my agents that I did not want to talk about anything because my goal was to stay at Arsenal.

Interest

"I knew that there were two or three clubs interested in me but they did not tell me the names.

"I know that there were all the big Italian clubs but these are not things that interest me.

"In my head it was always clear: I wanted to stay at Arsenal so I did not have to look any further or to wonder who wanted me.

"It happened fairly quickly, at the end of the season I told them what I wanted, they were in agreement and the coach supported me.

"I gave them a guarantee of confidence. I am super happy. I hope that we can continue like this for another few years.

Trophies

"It is just an extension of two years, so it binds me to the club for four years, so if I go to the end of my contract, it will be eight years that I will be at Arsenal.

"If everything goes well, I hope I can fulfil my contract. Once again, I really think that we can do great things with this team.

"That's why I wanted to stay there in order to help my club to move forward and start winning trophies this year."