Coutadeur linked with Arsenal

Arsenal are apparently ready to test the resolve of Le Mans and lodge a bid for French midfielder Mathieu Coutadeur in the summer transfer window. It is understood the Gunners could spend as much as £7 million for the player.

The player was showcased by eyefootball here in January of last year, where we tipped the player for big things.

Coutadeur said: "My agent has had contact with several clubs, but there is nothing concrete so far.

"Arsenal? I read they are attracted. I have been surprised. My team-mates have teased me. There are contacts, but nothing concrete.

"It is time for me to leave. That is very clear. The chairman gave me his agreement for leaving. I want to reach a new level. I need a big sporting challenge."