Ramsey chooses Arsenal over United and Everton
Aaron Ramsey has opted for Arsenal's Emirates Stadium
Tuesday, 10, Jun 2008 10:50
Cardiff City defender Aaron Ramsey has chosen to move to Arsenal ahead of Premier League rivals Everton and Manchester United this summer.
The Welsh ace, 17, has been the subject of a number of enquiries this summer following his excellent season in the Bluebirds first-team, who finished runners-up to Portsmouth in the FA Cup.
And three clubs, which it later emerged were the Toffees, the Red Devils and the Gunners, were given permission to speak to Ramsey about a move after agreeing an initial £5 million transfer fee.
However, according to a statement on the Cardiff City website today, Ramsey has opted for north London over Merseyside or Old Trafford because he believes it will be the best option for his development.
"Cardiff City were informed on Friday morning that Aaron Ramsey's preferred destination this summer is at the Emirates Stadium with Arsenal," the statement read.
"We will now continue the dialogue with the Gunners with view to Aaron's move being completed."
The decision of the youngster is something of a blow to the Cardiff coaching staff, who had negotiated loan back agreements with both Everton and Manchester United.
However, the club have confirmed no such agreement exists in the offer from Arsenal.
"We would like to wish Aaron every success in the top flight," the statement concluded.