Marouane Chamakh to lead rush of new talent as Arsenal eye their man

After the foreign affairs comes the domestic introspection and the feeling that the Premier League needs new faces if it is to ensure that this season’ s European disappointment is just a blip.

On the move? Bordeaux's Marouane Chamakh celebrates his goal against Lyon

We do not know if English football’s off-kilter economics means we are in for a period of restraint or another spree but the rumour of new signings has already begun.

One week ago, Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh was asked if his proposed transfer to Arsenal was so advanced that he was beginning to think of London
more than Bordeaux. ‘Do I already have Arsenal on my mind?’ Chamakh, 26, answered.

‘A little.’ But he added: ‘Our end of the season is so important that I can’t plan for life after Bordeaux.’ However, football’s transfer market reality means planning is continual.

Yesterday morning, after Bordeaux’s elimination from the Champions League, despite another slick finish from Chamakh against Lyon, came renewed reports in France that a four-year deal has been agreed with Arsenal.

By yesterday afternoon Chamakh was being quoted as saying he is ‘certain’ to leave at the end of the season. It would be undiplomatic for either Arsenal or Bordeaux to
confirm a deal although as Chamakh will soon be a free agent, he is allowed to speak
to other clubs.

But Arsenal’s interest is established. ‘He is a player we were close to signing,’ said Arsene Wenger after last August’s window closed.