Chamakh holds Gunners talks

Chamakh: In London

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Sky Sports News understands Marouane Chamakh is in London putting the finishing touches to his proposed move to Arsenal.

The Gunners have been tracking the Morocco international frontman for some time, with the player admitting recently that he was heading to Emirates Stadium.

It appears as though Arsene Wenger may finally be about to get his man, with the French coach recently confirming that an agreement was close.

Should he agree terms with Arsenal, Chamakh will move to England as a free agent as his contract at Bordeaux is set to expire.

The 26-year-old has been a regular source of goals in the French top flight over recent years and has often expressed a desire to test himself at a higher level.

He may be about to get that opportunity in the Premier League, with it seemingly only a matter of time before he secures a dream move to Arsenal.

Proposal

While the Gunners are delighted to be closing on a top target, Bordeaux have been left disappointed at the prospect of seeing their most potent attacking weapon head for pastures new.

Club president Jean-Louis Triaud has revealed that the Ligue 1 outfit did everything in their power to keep the African ace at Stade Chaban Delmas, but accepts there is nothing more he can do.

"We have proposed extensions to Marouane. Our first proposal was on January 1, 2009," he said.

"He said he never spoke to Arsene Wenger. But I find it strange that he could be recruited by Arsenal without talking to the coach.

"I have had two difficult transfers since I arrived: Wiltord and Chamakh. These two departures relate to Arsenal.

Affection

"Had he accepted our proposal, he could have improved his contract.

"I think he was surrounded and badly misguided. I did not appreciate at all how it went. As president, I resent it."

Triaud, though, has no personal animosity towards Chamakh.

He added: "Personally, I owe him all my affection. He is a lovely boy. He is a warrior and a fighter. He has not cheated.

"I wish him success at Arsenal. I will see him again with pleasure.

"I have great affection and gratitude for him. He brought a lot of things at the club. But I still don't appreciate the way he left."