Spanish Football Transfers
La Liga Review has received a number of e-mails asking us what's happening with Ignasi Miquel, a story we covered here a few weeks ago about the Catalan youngster who had reportedly joined Arsenal from UD Cornella in Barcelona.
Many readers are wondering why the deal has not yet formally been announced by Arsenal and have asked us if the deal has collapsed.
All we can say is, don't panic. The player will be joining Arsenal and has in all intents and purposes become an Arsenal player. The lack of any formal announcement is down to the fact that the player cannot sign a professional contract until he turns 16 on the 28th September 2008.
The player, his family, agent and club bosses have now had several visits to London and all are delighted with the treatment that they have received at the hands of Arsenal and there is no doubt that the player will be joining the Premiership.
La Liga Review has spoken with Miquel's Spanish club, UD Cornella, and they have told us that the player has really been given the VIP treatment on all of his trips to London - an indication, perhaps, of how highly he is regarded by Wenger.
According to Cornella, Miquel has visited his new school in London as well as his new home: the same home where Fran Merida and Cesc Fabregas both lodged.
Several weeks ago Miquel got to have lunch with the first team squad and was a guest at Arsenal's 2-0 win over Blackburn and, as the press office at Cornella told us, Ignasi Miquel was given his hero Cesc Fabregas's shirt after the match. On his second visit to London the player was present at Arsenal's match at the Emirates with Aston Villa. In fact, the staff at Cornella were so chuffed with their treatment at Arsenal that they have even posted some photos of their little trip on their website. (Photos of the President with Fabregas and Almunia here). Bless.
All we can say at La Liga Review is - don't worry, he's coming - and at least he hasn't had to go in to hiding like Fran Merida did: unlike Merida who Barcelona did not want to lose, Cornella are very happy with the deal that will see their youth set up financially secure for many years to come.
there's a picture of him with people at the emirates is it okay if u can give me the link to it i havent seen a picture of him aswell please :D
Posted by: Caroline Sheppard | April 13, 2008 at 09:56 PM
I'll have a look Caroline - did you not try the video link above - thats him in the video.
Posted by: Lee | April 13, 2008 at 10:09 PM