Anelka tipped to replace Henry
Anelka could be on his way back to Arsenal
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Sunday, 24, Jun 2007 10:02
Arsene Wenger is lining up ex-Arsenal man Nicolas Anelka as a replacement for the departing Thierry Henry.
Wenger is reportedly considering a move for the Bolton striker or Ajax forward Jan Huntelaar as he looks to fill the void Henry has left in his side.
Anelka left the Gunners in 1999 for Real Madrid in a £22 million deal. Since then he has been at a host of clubs including Paris Saint Germain, Manchester City and Fenerbahce.
During his spell with Arsenal, Anelka scored 23 goals in 65 appearances and Wenger believes he can get the best out of the 28-year-old once more.
A source close to the Gunners boss told the News of the World: "Arsene reluctantly allowed Thierry to go. It is sad for everyone concerned but Thierry made it clear that this is what he wants to do. And Arsene definitely believes Anelka is the ideal replacement.
"If he doesn't get Anelka then he will go for Jan Huntelaar and [Ryan] Babel is also a possibility."
Henry said one of his reasons for leaving Arsenal was the uncertainty surrounding Wenger's future at the club. Former striker Jeremie Aliadiere feels there could be more departures from the club.
Aliadiere has just joined Middlesbrough and thinks even if Wenger brings in a replacement like Anelka other players may still want to leave.
Speaking to the People newspaper, he said: "No one knows if Wenger is staying or going. If he leaves there are going to be a lot of players that would go too."