The Lyon star to replace Walcott (Video)
First it was Andre Schurrle, now it’s Yoann Gourcuff; Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is desperate to secure a replace for Theo Walcott, should the England international turn down a new deal at the Emirates Stadium.
Walcott has been linked with a move away from the North London side, with his current contract set to run out next summer. At present, no new offer has been made for the wideman, although Wenger is keen to ensure the situation is resolved by Christmas.
However, the Frenchman is eager to bring in a new man, should new terms fail to be agreed with Walcott. Last week it was Bayer Leverkusen youngster Schurrle linked with a move to the Gunners, but it appears his attention has switched to Lyon midfielder Gourcuff.
The France international was likened as the young Zinedine Zidane as a teenager, but has somewhat failed to rise to the heights expected of him. A failed move to AC Milan in 2003 failed to see the 26-year-old live up to his enormous expectations.
A combination of injuries and failing to settle in Italy saw him secure a loan switch to Bordeaux in 2008 before he signed permanently with the Ligue 1 side in 2009. It was with Les Girondins that he rediscovered his form that he showed as a promising youngster, helping them to the Le Championnat title during his first season with the club.
Interest had risen during his stint with the south France side, but it was Lyon that secured his signature in 2010. However, injuries have again played their part and his career appears to have stalled.
A move away from Les Gones would possibly be the wisest move for Gourcuff, who looks to re-establish himself in the French national team. With Wenger as his manager, chances are he could well rediscover his form once again, provided he could stay injury free, and would likely be a cheaper alternative to Schurrle, who has been attracting interest from Chelsea.
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