Chamakh set for Arsenal

(GSM) – Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh has confirmed that he will be joining Arsenal this summer. The 26-year-old will join the Emirates’ side on a free transfer at the end of the current season.

The Moroccan forward’s Bordeaux contract was set to expire in June and he was heavily-linked with a move to the London-based club before the deal was eventually finalized.

“I am delighted to join the English football atmosphere, it is something amazing,” he told L’Equipe.

“I love Arsenal’s game. I know I will have to adapt but I know the short passing game with (Bordeaux midfielder) Yoann Gourcuff.

“In February, I made my decision. A departure clause (in a potential new Bordeaux contract) was not logical after refusing Arsenal last summer.

“Arsenal were not alone. There were Liverpool, Tottenham and crazy offers from Russia.

“But I was only focused on the Premier League.”

Chamakh, who joined the Ligue 1 club in 2000, says his last matches with Bordeaux were emotional.

“For my last matches with Bordeaux I can feel a lot of emotion,” he added.

“But I am leaving for a new challenge. At Bordeaux I was the club’s child. In London, I won’t be a kid anymore.

“I have grown, I have things to prove and I am motivated to achieve it.”