Wenger considers Traore move

Arsenal manager linked with teenage striker

Last updated: 7th January 2010   Subscribe to RSS Feed

Wenger considers Traore move

Traore: Arsenal interest

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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is considering a move for talented teenage Ivory Coast striker Lacina Traore.

The 19-year-old, who is currently on the books of Romanian outfit CFR Cluj, has been likened to former Emirates Stadium forward Emmanuel Adebayor.

Wenger is reported to have been alerted to his talents by Jean-Marc Guillou, who gave the Gunners boss his break in coaching and now runs an academy in the Ivory Coast where he spotted the tall frontman's talents.

Traore would relish the opportunity to prove his worth in the Premier League and is excited by the prospect of a switch to the North London giants.

"It would be a dream for me to get to play on a team so great," Traore is quoted by Daily Express. "I have a chance there because Arsene Wenger relies heavily on young players.

"There is great pressure on me now because I am being linked with big European clubs, but this is my ambition.

Sensational

"The Ivory Coast coach has already told me I will get my chance with the national team, but my chances of that happening would certainly increase if I was to join a big team like Arsenal.

"It is sensational to hear Wenger is watching me. I could be a success in England.

"Even though I am still young, I have a lot of experience and a lot of ambition. Wherever I go it will be hard at first, but I'm sure I would settle in."

Traore's current employers Cluj have confirmed initial discussions have already taken place with the Gunners and they have told the Premier League side of their asking price.

Club president Iuliu Muresan added: "We have had contact from Arsenal but we have not received a concrete offer yet.

"Four million euros is close to the amount we are seeking."