Coquelin (no.9) with the French u-17 team
Reports in France today imply that French under-17 international Francis Coquelin has signed for Arsenal from Stade Lavallois, although the news is yet to be confirmed. Coquelin was on trial at the club recently but had his time at the club cut short due to injury. However, he seemingly impressed the Arsenal coaching staff enough during his time at London Colney to be offered a permanent deal. He’s a promising midfielder and would most likely spend his first season at the club acclimatising to London and playing in the reserves.
Earlier today,it was suggested that Coquelin could be part of a triple-swoop by Arsenal for French players. As well as Coquelin, Samir Nasri and Clement Chantome could both be heading to Emirates Stadium. The Nasri signing is the most talked about of the three and there were reports in French newspaper L’Equipe that he will sign today, although that looks far from the case. As for Chantome, he is a highly-rated 22 year old currently playing for PSG.
In other transfer news, it appears that Manchester United have beaten us to the signings of Jeremy Helan and Darnel Situ. But you can’t sign everyone I suppose.
Finally, the picture above is of what is set to be Arsenal’s new home kit for next season. The kit will be worn by players at the club through all levels, from the first-team to the under-18s. The away kit will be based on the title winning strip of 1989.
More tomorrow.
