Monday, 3rd June, 2013
Incoming Arsenal striker Yaya Sanogo insists that it was Arsene Wenger who sold the prospect of joining the Gunners to him, when he initially preferred the idea of signing for Lille.
The prolific young hitman is out of contract with Auxerre from July and has agreed to sign for Arsenal, who beat a whole host of clubs to his signature.
Wenger made a special trip to Paris with Gilles Grimandi in March, where he presented a persuasive case to Sanogo and his entourage, encouraging the 20-year-old to agree to continue his development at Arsenal.
And not even Lille being keen or a renewed contract offer from Auxerre could undo Wenger’s good work.
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"A lot of clubs were interested", Sanogo told L’Equipe.
"On balance, it was between Lille and Arsenal.
"Initially, I wanted to go to Lille, but the approach of Mr Wenger made the difference.
"Many say my entourage chose for me. This is wrong."
Sanogo managed nine goals in 13 games for Ligue 2 side Auxerre this season; an impressive return for a player still recovering from a nightmare double leg break in 2010.
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