Arsenal decide to transfer midfielder after inviting club to London for talks

By 1970’s Gooner

Arsenal seem to have taken the decision to finally go ahead with transferring one of their most experienced and loyal players.

Gilberto Silva has been, since his transfer from Atlético Mineiro right after he helped his country to victory in the World Cup of 2002, one of Arsene Wenger’s best buys.

But alas time has been catching up with him (he is now 32) managing only 17 appearances during last season after losing his place to the younger Flamini who has since moved on to what he considers the greener pastures of AC Milan.

Arsene Wenger appears however to have decided that Gilberto will not be the one to replace the gap left by Flamini as Arsenal have already send a fax to Greek club Panathinaikos inviting them to London for face to face talks about Gilberto’s transfer.

The meeting has already been set for next Wednesday and Panathinaikos are very keen to conclude what for them will be a major scoop.

It appears the player has already been talking terms with the Greek club and all that remains is to satisfy Arsenal’s demands.

Panathinaikos are offering the player £2m per year in a three year contract which is what the player has demanded. The third year will come into force if Gilberto plays in 50% of the games the year before.

The player’s agent Nicola Arkouri has indicated to the Greek press that his client will consider the offer seriously.

Panathinaikos which now has former Chelsea assistant boss Henk Ten Cate as their head coach are reportedly ready to start the bidding at £1.5m but they may have to increase that if they are to land their man.


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