Maroaune Chamakh turned down Spurs and Liverpool to sign for Arsenal



By Sportsmail Reporter

Maroaune Chamakh has revealed he snubbed Liverpool and Tottenham to join Arsenal on a free transfer.



Arsene Wenger has vowed to strengthen his squad this summer with the Bordeaux hitman expected to be his first acquisition.



Arsenal target: The Gunners are expected to unveil Chamakh at the end of the season

And speaking to French newspaper L'Equipe, Chamakh, 26, said: 'There were approaches from Liverpool, Tottenham and offers of madness from Russia which were much greater than those from England. But, I was focused on playing in the Premier League.

'I have always loved Arsenal's football. I know I will have to adapt, but I have experience of playing the short passing game from working with Yoann Gourcuff.



'I count the days, 11 short days. As time passes, it feels weird. I feel many emotions.'

Wenger was expected to sign Chamakh last summer but opted against the move due to the hefty price Bordeaux demanded for their player, who had just one year to run on his contract.

Bon voyage: Chamakh has scored 15 goals in 44 appearances this season

Chamakh added that it was a risk to stay with the French club, who progressed to the last eight of the Champions League this season, albeit a risk that was justified.



'I took a risk to stay with one year left on my contract, but I never cheated, I gave myself thoroughly.



'(Bordeaux) offered a contract extension that was almost impossible to refuse, financially - figures very close to those of Arsenal'







