The expected Arsenal exodus has begun with Man City this evening officially announcing the signing of Gael Clichy for an undisclosed fee – £7 million is widely reported as the sum involved.
The left-back joins the Eastlands revolution, signing a four-year deal after spending eight years with the Gunners.
The move comes after lengthy speculation surrounding Clichy’s future at the Emirates; the player was about to enter the final year of his contract and had previously indicated that he was unwilling to discuss new terms. Liverpool were also amongst the clubs linked to his services.
Clichy becomes the first player to slip from Arsene Wenger’s grasp with the likes of Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri also expected to follow him out of the club. We may well see developments with both players in the next seven days; in the immediate future however, Wenger is surely likely to be looking to strengthen at left-back following Clichy’s departure. Newcastle’s Jose Enrique is a commonly reported target for the Gunners – he resumed training with the Magpies today with his agent remaining tight lipped on his future. Watch this space on that one.
Meanwhile, a full Scout Report on Clichy, assessing his likely prospects at City and his impact on the Roberto Mancini’s options will follow.
