Gervinho - Gunners want me

Striker tells skysports.com that Arsenal are keen to sign him

By Giscard Gourizro   Last updated: 13th June 2008

Gervinho - Gunners want me

Gervinho: Arsenal claim

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Highly-rated Le Mans striker Gervinho has claimed that Arsenal are pursuing his services.

Gervinho joined Le Mans last year from Beveren - a club that had a co-operation agreement with Arsenal from 2001 to 2006.

The Ivory Coast international has impressed since his switch, and has stated that The Gunners have held discussions with his agent.

"When I arrived at Le Mans nobody knew me," Gervinho exclusively told skysports.com. "I had to work hard to get into the first-team.

Rejection

"Today I am a bit known in Europe. Arsenal have spoken to my agents and they are looking at it.

"Arsenal are a big team, they have made it clear they want me. However, [Le Mans president] Henri Legarda is saying no to them.

"My club is refusing any discussion with Arsenal because they do not want me to go. My contract runs out in 2010 and they are keen to extend my deal."

Staying put

Gervinho is flattered by the reported interest being shown in him, but plans to honour his contract at Stade Leon-Bollee.

"I know Wenger likes signing young players. I prefer to stay in Le Mans and learn my trade at the club that gave me a chance to be linked with a big club," the 21-year-old explained.

"I owe them more years. I will try to win silverware with them. It won't be easy but it is possible, so I will stay with Le Mans."