Arsenal Transfer News: PSG Ready Mega Bid For Gael Clichy

Frech club Paris Saint Germain have emerged as the newest contenders in the race for Gael Clichy’s signature, according to reports. The cash rich side are thinking about launching a bumper bid of 15 million Euros for the Arsenal defender, along with an astounding 3 million Euros per year for the player’s wages.

Clichy off to PSG?

PSG have been the subjects of a high-profile investment by the Qatar Investment Foundation and are consequently splashing the cash this summer. They have been linked with a number of top players including Samuel Eto’o, Dimitar Berbatov, Kaka, Gervinho, Jeremy Menez, Javier Pastore, Eden Hazard and Ganzo. The immensely lucrative deal they have in store for Clichy will surely catch his interest and will help to ward off the approaches of Liverpool and AS Roma, who are also in the hunt for the former Cannes man.

According to this report by Footmercato.net (in French), PSG are weighing up an offer that they think Arsenal won’t be able to refuse, and will make a formal bid sometime next week.

Arsene Wenger was recently quoted as saying that the club have started contract talks with Clichy and want him to stay on for a few more seasons. But with the French international having only 12 months remaining on his current contract, an offer such as the likes being reported is sure to test Wenger’s and the Arsenal Board’s resolve.

Clichy has been at Arsenal since 2003, when he joined from French club Cannes. He was initially understudy to first-choice left back Ashley Cole. But he stepped up to the plate after Cole left for Chelsea in 2006, and performed admirably in his first two seasons. He was chosen in the PFA Premier League Team if the Season for the 2007-08 season.

The last few seasons have seen a general downturn in form however, with sporadic solid performances being interspersed with horrible lapses in concentration and silly mistakes.

Arsenal currently have Englishman Kieran Gibbs and Frenchman Armand Traore listed as back-up to Clichy. Centre-back Thomas Vermaelen can also fill in at left back, having played there regularly for his previous club, Ajax. Arsenal are also reported to be interested in Newcastle left back Jose Enrique, and may use the windfall from the Clichy transfer to mop up a deal there.

Arsenal wouldn’t want to lose Clichy, who is one of the most experienced players they have in spite of all his errors. Moreover, the Gunners need reinforcements in too many other positions on the pitch, for them to think about an additional left back as well. More will be known in this regard if PSG do make the bid.