Arsenal and Spurs poised for transfer fight

Arsenal and Tottenham could be about to do battle in the transfer market after talkSPORT reported that both are keen on Lille front man Gervinho, who looks unlikely to extend his stay at the French club despite the fact that they are five matches away from winning the Ligue 1 title at [1.91].

The Ivorian international, who was arguably his country's most impressive performer in a wide role at last summer's World Cup, has played a pivotal role in his side's fairly unlikely charge to the top of the table, contributing 14 goals and nine assists to see them a point clear of champions Marseille.

However, his contract runs out at the end of next season and the latest reports in France are that he has no interest in agreeing to a new deal, prompting speculation that north London's finest are both eager to try to bring the £10.5 million-rated 23-year-old to the Premier League.

Gervinho was linked with Liverpool last summer but confirmed his intention to spend this campaign with Lille, though he has since expressed his desire to eventually move a European giant, stating that "the Spanish and English leagues are two of the best in the world and it would be a privilege to play there".

If it comes down to Arsenal and Spurs - which is no certainty given that Bayern Munich and Atletico Madrid are also alleged to be admirers - then the Gunners perhaps have the edge after the forward said: "One day I expect to play abroad in a very good team that can challenge for the Champions League."

The Lilywhites currently trail fourth-placed Manchester City by seven points with four games to go, one of which is away to the Citizens, so may need to triumph at Eastlands and at Liverpool to secure the spot, which is why they are [23.0] outsiders to finish in a Champions League-paying position.

Would you want your club to sign Gervinho? Have your say in the space below...

Published: 8 May 2011

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