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Bergkamp signs new Gunners deal

DENNIS BERGKAMP has finally put pen to paper on a new one-year deal at Arsenal.

The veteran Dutch striker appeared to be set to leave Highbury after his previous deal expired at the end of last season, and the Gunners initially offered him less money in his new one.

Bergkamp's agent Rob Jansen labelled the offer 'too embarrassing for words' and claimed to be 'disappointed with the way Arsenal have behaved'.

However, the two sides have now patched up their differences and reached an agreement, and 34-year-old Bergkamp will now meet up with his team-mates on their pre-season tour of Austria.

The former Ajax and Internazionale hit-man joined Arsenal in the summer of 1995, and had always insisted he wanted to extend his stay with the Gunners for a further year.

"I'm so pleased to have signed a new contract. As I have always said, Arsenal is a fantastic club and it has always been my intention to end my career here," said Bergkamp.

"I'm delighted to be part of a great squad of players, which gives us a realistic chance of winning trophies again this year."

The Highbury icon also dismissed reports that the club had behaved disrespectfully towards him adding; "The club has treated me in a fair and respectful manner throughout the negotiations."

Bergkamp's boss Arsene Wenger also revealed his delight at the contract extension declaring he always intended to keep the Dutchman.

"I have always said it is important to retain the players we already have here so it's great news that Dennis has committed himself to the club for another year," said the Frenchman.

"He has so much to offer. Dennis is a special talent with vast experience and that will certainly help us in our pursuit of honours."