Gunnerblog

Saviola chooses Arsenal?

32 comments July 5th, 2006

It’s a question, because I’m not sure. I haven’t spoken to him. Neither have AS, the Spanish sports paper, but they have spoken to “sources close to the player“. Aha, those imaginary people.

It’s not the first time this summer we’ve been linked with the diminuitive Argentine. However, this time makes a little more sense. Up until now, it had been expected that Saviola would join Greek side Panathanaikos, who’d offered an enormous wage package. However, the ruling that Greece would be suspended from all European competition changed everything. Under the suspension, the likes of AEK Athens, Olympiakos and Panathinaikos will not be allowed to compete in the Champions League or Uefa Cup next season.

This has seriously hampered Pana’s chances of snaring “The Rabbit“, and AS claim this has pushed him firmly in the direction of Arsenal:

“Saviola has preferred Arsenal’s offer although he has another more financially rewarding one from Greek side Panathanaikos. The sporting challenge of The Gunners is more attractive for the Argentinian. The agent of the forward, Alfredo Cabrera, will arrive at Barcelona this coming week to finalise the terms of his release from Barca. Barca will not cling on to the player, and will accept an offer equivalent to the final year of his contract (about â?¬3.5 million euros) to release ‘The Rabbit’.”

For a player who cost Barca £15m, that’s not a lot of money. Indeed, any deal would be reminscent of the way in which we nabbed Tomas Rosicky at such a bargain price. Only 24, Saviola still has time to reach the potential he first showed glimpses of at River Plate.

Jeremie Aliadere attempting to stay fit cover upfront and on the wings is not the area in need of most urgent attention. However, whilst it remains speculation, we’ll have faith that Arsene knows what he’s doing.

The Greek press are expecting an announcement from Saviola any day soon. Now, thanks to those “sources close to the player“, so are we.

Gunners in Germany: Part 8 – Super-mann Beaten

252 comments July 5th, 2006

What with his penalty heroics in the Quarter Final, and a string of top class saves last night, Jens Lehmann had become something of a superhero for Germany. However, sadly for him, not even superhuman goalkeeping prowess was enough to keep out an Italy side who were almost as slick as the hairstyles. 0-0 in the 119th minute, we waited for penalties, until two great finishes from Fabio Grosso and Alessandro Del Piero. Lehmann didn’t stand a chance, and wept as his country’s chances disappeared. Grossly unlucky, he deserves to be in the Team of the Tournament.

At the heart of the Italian’s defence, Fabio Cannavaro was absolutely outstanding. If, as is being proposed, Juve are relegated to Serie C1, he would be a fantastic acquisition. 33 perhaps, but still the world’s best defender. I’m all for promoting the youth, but an experienced head such as his certainly wouldn’t do any harm.

Tonight sees Thierry Henry go up against England’s conquerors, Portugal. No doubt he’ll be wanting to give them one from team-mates Sol, Ashley and Theo.

Though Spain are long gone, Cesc Fabregas is still hitting the headlines, as his agent has spoken out on the interest from Real Madrid:

“We had meetings before the elections and there would be no problems on our side, but now they have to speak to Arsenal and see what they say. We have always said we are very thankful to Arsenal. We would never try a dirty trick on Arsenal and whatever has to happen will happen. I don’t think Arsenal would want to let the player go for all the gold in the world and we’ll have to wait and see now.”

It’s pretty candid stuff, but nothing too alarming. For an agent, he seems like a fairly decent guy, especially when you consider how much money he would make from a Fabregas transfer. Incidentally, Cesc will wear the number 4 shirt next season, with Rosicky taking number 7: a fact revealed by Arsenal’s own club shop.

Anyway, don’t spend your time worrying about the possibility of Cesc leaving: Cygan’s staying.