Arsenal have decided not to offer French defender William Gallas a new contract after his demands were deemed extravagant by the club’s hierarchy. The 32-year old had been demanding a new two-year contract on wages of £80,000 a week. He joins a list of high profile players who have been released by their clubs including the likes of Michael Ballack and Joe Cole. It won’t be too difficult for the Frenchman to find a new club. The likes of Juventus and Roma are already hot in pursuit of the former Chelsea defender.
The Gunners have already started planning life without Gallas. Arsene Wenger has earmarked Everton defender Phil Jagielka as his replacement. The 27-year old who was controversially left out by Capello in his World Cup squad will be lured by an attractive offer and a chance to play Champions League football. Arsenal have also set their sights on Lorient defender Laurent Koscielny.
For the first time after moving into the new stadium, Arsene Wenger has money to spend. He is also on the verge of signing out of contract England midfielder Joe Cole and is expected to bid for Fulham goalkeeper Mark Schwarzer. In the case that Fabregas completes his move to Barcelona, Wenger will have additional amount in his transfer kitty as he plans to restructure his squad and mount a serious title challenge.
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