EPL News: Houllier Snaps Robert Pires, Eyes Karim Benzema
The new Aston Villa boss Gerard Houllier has revealed that he would like to bring Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema to Villa Park. Houllier recently snapped up Robert Pires, the former Arsenal player, on a short term contract and seems to be determined to
acquire the services of Benzema on a loan move in the upcoming January transfer window.
The 37-year-old Pires was released during the summer by Villarreal and is expected to be with Aston Villa before this weekend. If his arrival is as swift as expected and hoped than one could very well see Pires make his home debut for Aston Villa against
his former side Arsenal on Saturday. With his knowledge and experience, Pires will be a valuable addition to the Villa side.
Gary McAllister, the Aston Villa assistant manager told reporters, “Robert has been training with Arsenal. I know the boss and Arsene Wenger are very friendly and I believe he's joining us. It's perfect. I'm sure he will arrive in good condition. He's
a player everyone can look up to because of what he has achieved.”
Former boss Arsene Wenger, the Arsenal manager also had nice things to say about Pires and was confident that Villa would benefit by signing him. He said, “To me, before his knee injury, Pires was the best attacking midfielder in the world. With us,
he was just flying. Even if he has lost the speed of his youth, he can still help at Aston Villa thanks to his knowledge of the game.”
Former France teammate Blanc, who played alongside Pires in the World Cup was pleased about the news of his move to Villa, he said, “If Gerard Houllier has made the decision, then Pires can offer something. He will not be wrong. Pires may be getting
on in years but still has the skill and technique to bring something to the party at Aston Villa.”
Houllier is facing a possible crisis in the January transfer window, with many first team players having revealed that they want a move. Therefore it no surprise that Houllier is eager to welcome Karim Benzema, he told reporters, “If Karim wants to
come and play at Villa, we will take him tomorrow. We could give him playing time here.”
It remains to be seen if Aston Villa will actually get to sign the out of favour Real Madrid striker, with Manchester United also showing interest in the player. Reports reveal that Harry Redknapp is also preparing a move for the French international, which
leaves Aston Villa in a tight spot, facing serious competition from Tottenham and United.
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