England international Jack Wilshere is said to have taken the advice of former England captain, David Beckham before signing on the dotted line for AFC Bournemouth. Beckham, apparently rang Wilshere to offer his guidance as the Arsenal man mulled over the alternative offers from domestic and foreign clubs which involved the likes of Crystal Palace, Roma and Beckham’s former club, AC Milan.
On deadline day, Wilshere chose to speak to Crystal Palace and Bournemouth, and it was believed that the detailed way in which Eddie Howe explained the vision of the team and how Wilshere will play in the system was impressive enough to convince the England international to commit his future over the course of the season to the South Coast club.
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The presence of former Arsenal striker, Benik Afobe who is also the godfather of Wilshere’s oldest child was also one of the primary reasons for the England midfielder to opt for the Cherries. Considered as good friends and who have played alongside each other in the youth teams at Arsenal, Wilshere did engage in discussions and was convinced by his former teammate as well.
David Beckham who started his career with Manchester United before moving to Real Madrid and LA Galaxy also had stints with AC Milan and PSG and was instrumental in providing guidance to the youngster on his next career move.
According to reports in Mirror Sports, the London-based club was reluctant to let Wilshere move abroad and was pleased when he opted to stay put in England.
Bournemouth willing to match Wilshere’s wages
The deal clincher was probably the Cherries ability to match the financial terms that were on offer from the London club. It is believed that Bournemouth would be paying the player’s wages as well as handing over the loan fee of around £2 million.
Wilshere, who was limited to two substitute appearances in this season’s Premier League, was omitted from the Sam Allardyce’s first England squad as well and has fallen down the pecking order of the Arsenal midfield.
While his availability had sparked off interest from at least 22 clubs, it was Howe, over lengthy discussions that convinced Wilshere a move to Bournemouth would suit him. Wilshere has two years left on his current contract at the Emirates and this move should be seen as a chance for the midfielder to rack up a lot of playing time before he heads back to Arsenal next season.
