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Keown, who was
part of the World Cup squad in Japan, is now out of contract at
Highbury.
But the England
defender, who will be 36 later this month, wants a two-year deal
while Arsenal have only offered one year. Negotiations will intensify
over the next fortnight when Arsenal players report back for pre-season
training.
However, if
Keown cannot agree a new contract at Arsenal, the Upton Park club
will bid to sign him. Keown is aware of West Ham's interest, although
his high wages could be a stumbling block.
The Gunners,
meanwhile, are poised to sign Lille defender Pascal Cygan, according
to the player's agent Frederic Dobraje.
'Lille and Arsenal
have reached an agreement,' said Dobraje, adding: 'The contract
hasn't actually been signed but a lot of the groundwork has already
been done.'
The 28-year-old
was voted French player of the year by France Football magazine
for season 2000-2001.
Elsewhere it
is being reported today that Juventus vice-chairman Roberto Bettega,
the former Italian international star, is due in London at the weekend
to try to recruit Patrick Vieira.
The France and
Arsenal midfielder has pledged to honour his contract, which has
two years to run, but Arsenal want him to sign a further year's
extension.
It is claimed
that Juventus are willing to offer French defender Lillian Thuram
and Dutch midfielder Edgar Davids for Vieira in a swap deal.
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