Harry Redknapp has revealed how he managed to acquire long-term Arsenal target Yann M’Vila for the relegation battling Queens Park Rangers, stating that he told the youngster it is the quickest way into a top club such as Arsenal.
The deal is edging closer to completion and many have wondered how the Hoops have pulled off such a coup, with Redknapp expected to seal the £7million transfer this week.
The 22-year-old dropped off the Gunners radar since his disciplinary issues which escalated during the Euro 2012 campaign, but Redknapp is convinced he is a top footballer and the Rennes star can use QPR as a stepping stone to a top Premier League club such as the Gunners.
Redknapp told The Daily Mail:
I just made him feel he was wanted, that is the key.
I told him that he would come here and be a good player, and if he does well, if we stay up, in 18 months he could get a move to Manchester United, or Arsenal, or Chelsea, if that is what he is looking for.
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In the meantime he could come here and we put him on the stage and show what he can do.
If we can build a team then hopefully he will stay with us. If not he will put himself on the stage for bigger things.
He is a top, proper footballer. He can play. He controls the game, he can pass the ball, he is strong.
He’s had a few problems off the field but he is only young. If he behaves himself and comes and plays for us as he is able to then he will be a
great asset.
Many expected M’Vila to be a sure thing this winter, especially with his price tag radically reduced from the summer. However with his mammoth French national team ban that essentially rules him out of the World Cup, it seemed his rebellious attitude would affect his career and his favoured move to England seemed unlikely.
However Redknapp is taking the plunge that Wenger has failed to, and gaining a player of his quality, young age and experience for £7m is a massive coup – the Gunners have missed a real diamond in the rough.
But all is not lost as if he proves to be a revelation and QPR do indeed get relegated, then perhaps the Gunners could be in with a grin this summer for the player dubbed the ‘New Patrick Vieira’.
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