Reports – Kalou Leaves Ivory Coast Training Camp To Fly In For Arsenal Talks

Chelsea forward Saloman Kalou is reported to have left Ivory Coast’s training camp to fly back to London in order to hold talks with Arsenal over a potential move.

The Ivory Coast squad were in Dubai yesterday as part of their preparations for the up-coming Africa Cup of Nations, but widespread reports both in England and in Africa have claimed that Kalou has left the camp to travel back to London to try and trash out his future.

The 26-year-old has failed to establish himself as a first team regular during his time at Stamford Bridge and with his contract expiring in the summer, he’s free to discuss a summer move with any club this January, with Arsenal and Liverpool both interested.

It has been suggested that Chelsea would be willing to sell him for £3m this month, but a sticking point for Arsenal is the fact that Kalou is thought to be holding out for £90,000 a week in wages.

It must be stressed these are all un-confirmed reports and nothing official has come out from Chelsea, Arsenal or Kalou, but several ‘sources’ have confirmed Kalou has made his way back to London but as yet no deal has been agreed. It’s thought the Gunners are keen to push through the deal before other parties, such as Liverpool, make their move.

Many Arsenal fans will feel underwhelmed  should they complete the signing of Kalou, with most hoping for a marquee signing such as Mario Gotze or Eden Hazard. But it should be remembered that Kalou has amassed an impressive 58 goals during just 135 starts (plus 101 substitute appearances) for Chelsea, and with Premier League experience and costing just £3m, he could be an astute purchase from Arsene Wenger.

***UPDATE*** According to BBC correspondents, Arsenal have denied the Kolou rumours claiming no talks are taking place.