Brentford chief explains why he’s happy to be selling Christian Norgaard to Arsenal

Brentford’s director of football is pleased that long-serving star Christian Norgaard will have the chance to add some trophies to his collection with a move to Arsenal imminent

Brentford’s director of football Phil Giles admits he’s “happy” that Christian Norgaard could be about to move to Arsenal – presenting the Dane with the chance to add silverware to his CV. The Gunners remain in talks to land the midfielder as they look to bolster their own ranks.

Their interest in Norgaard has come out of left field but a deal is closing in, which would be Mikel Arteta’s first signing of the summer and cover for the losses in the middle of the park. Norgaard signed for the Bees when they were still in the Championship and has been part of their rise up the pyramid.

The odds of them landing a trophy though are slim and Giles is pleased that one of their loyal servants could now get that chance elsewhere. Arsenal have genuine ambitions to win the Premier League title and have often been regulars in the latter end of cup competitions.

Norgaard could play his role at the Emirates with those in west London handing him their blessing. Giles told Sky Sports: “Arsenal approached us in the last two weeks about Christian regularly with Andrea Berta.

‘I think it’s fair to say it’s fair to say it’s more likely to happen than not. We have to go through the full process, tick all the boxes and then we’ll see at the end of it.

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“He’s been a fantastic player than us, unbelievable. I’m actually happy for him with the opportunity at this stage, 31, at this stage of his career to have an opportunity to go and try win some trophies.

“It isn’t done yet but we’re aware that if and when he does depart, we have a leadership void to try and fill. Also thinking about Ben Mee who also left this summer and Mark Flekken who’s an experienced goalkeeper. We’re aware of the squad and the blend of experiences we have in the squad and we’ll look to cover it.”

Arsenal are also looking to finally complete a deal for Martin Zubimendi, who has been a long-term target. A deal was reportedly struck with Real Sociedad weeks ago but the move has still not been announced. However it appears a case of when, rather than if.

Arteta and co have been slow to kick-off their summer business with a number of their rivals – Liverpool and Manchester City – both spending big and adding several new faces. The priority at Arsenal remains adding a prolific striker with a number of names on their shortlist.

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