This should be music to the ears of Arsenal fans everywhere, because ever since the Russian billionaire Roman Abramovich started pumping money into Chelsea, the Blues have regularly been able to beat the Gunners to any transfer targets that both clubs want, as well as being able to poach the likes of Ashley Cole with the offer of a massive hike in salary.
So to see the Metro report which reveals that Chelsea are set to miss out on one of their main transfer targets because the player has set his heart on playing for Arsenal, has got to be good news. The player in question is the Germany international centre back Antonio Rudiger.
The defender said, “I have always dreamed of the Premier League.
“I have been following Arsenal since the days of Henry and Bergkamp. I watch videos of Arsenal all the time on YouTube and I often wear the current Alexis Sanchez shirt.
“My heart beats for Arsenal.”
If you have never heard of him it is because Rudiger is still just 21-years old. But he has already played over 50 games for his Bundesliga club Stuttgart and has made the step up to the senior national side. And the youngster is so highly rated that his manager has admitted that there has been interest from various top clubs and that they will find it very hard to keep him, as reported by Sky Sports.
Armin Veh said, “Antonio is under contract until June 2017 with our club. The thing is, how much longer can we keep hold of such a player?
“He is willing to learn, has power and self-confidence and the willpower he needs to succeed.
“I understand that big clubs are chasing him. But a move will only be considered for Antonio if he joins a really big outfit. Otherwise, it would be better for him to stay at our club.”
So come on Arsene Wenger, what more encouragement do you need?