Arsenal transfer news: Jack Wilshere set to choose Crystal Palace over Watford and Bournemouth after talks with Alan Pardew
Gunners playmaker would rather stay in England after interest from abroad because of young family
JACK WILSHERE was locked in talks with Crystal Palace on Tuesday night over an amazing season-long loan move.
The Arsenal star, 24, met Palace chief Alan Pardew to discuss a switch to the South Londoners.
Wilshere has also spoken with Watford and Bournemouth but his preferred choice appears to be Palace.
The Eagles were trying to put together an emergency package to sign the midfielder last night ahead of the transfer window closing tonight.
Midfielder Yohan Cabaye could be out for several weeks after pulling out of the France squad with a knee injury, forcing Pardew to act.
Palace are desperate for creativity and Pards has seized on Wilshere’s surprise availability.
It is another ambitious move by the club after landing £32million striker Christian Benteke but it is a huge gamble for Wilshere.
He has not started a game for Arsenal this season and was axed by new England chief Sam Allardyce on Sunday for the World Cup qualifier with Slovakia.
Wilshere has been told he can leave Arsenal on loan for the rest of the season having fallen out of favour under Arsene Wenger.
Palace emerged as favourites after Pardew approached Wilshere yesterday morning.
But Watford believe they are still in with a shout as their Colney training base is right next to Arsenal’s.
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Wilshere was among a number of English players who went to Gunners boss Wenger last week to discuss their futures.
He was told to be patient and wait for his chance but Allardyce’s decision to axe him accelerated his desire to leave.
Wilshere’s lack of playing time convinced him to leave on loan, with his agent told to explore all options.
The midfielder has interest from abroad - including AC Milan - but, because of his two young children, he would rather stay in London.