Former Chelsea player and Coach Ray Wilkins has had his say on Petr Cech’s imminent transfer to London rivals Arsenal. Wilkins feels that Arsene Wenger has got himself a bargain early on in the summer.
A fee of £10.9 million has been agreed between Chelsea and Arsenal and the Czech Republic international has been pencilled in for a medical next week.
After captain John Terry claimed that the addition of Cech could equal an extra 10 to 15 points earlier this week, Wilkins is the latest figure in the football world to voice his opinion.
He believes the acquisition of the 33-year-old will improve The Gunners’ chances of winning the title next season and also admitted that he is surprised to see him go to Arsenal. The former Jordan manager told Sky Sports News:
“I’m extremely surprised and I thought Chelsea might have offloaded him into Europe somewhere.
“He’s been a fantastic servant for the club and the service he’s given the club has been unbelievable.
“I think [Chelsea have] done him a favour. Whether they’ve done themselves a favour is another question because with Petr going to Arsenal it reinforces their ability to be contenders for the Premier League title.
“I’m slightly surprised Chelsea have allowed him to go to another Premier League club. I think Petr will give a great deal to Arsenal and it’s Chelsea’s loss. I’m pleased we’ll get to see him in the Premier League week in, week out now.”
Wilkins had this to say about the fee:
“It is absolutely a bargain. Bearing in mind he never played last year, so in football terms he’s 32, not 33. He’s got eight years left at the top level.”
Cech is expected to complete his move to The Emirates next week.
