Pires could join Petit

Petit insists he will be in an Arsenal shirt next season

Arsenal's Emmanuel Petit has insisted that he will be at Highbury next season.

And in another boost for boss Arsene Wenger, French winger Robert Pires has said he would love to join the Gunners.

Midfielder Petit has been linked with a move to the continent, with Real Madrid, Celta Vigo and Parma all reputedly interested.

Speculation has been heightened by Wenger's £7million purchase of Lauren from Real Mallorca, with the versatile Cameroon international seen as a possible replacement for Petit.

Contract

But Petit, in Casablanca for the King Hassan II tournament, said: "I have two years left on my contract and, as far as I am concerned, I will be at Arsenal next season."

Pires favours move to Highbury

Pires, valued at £6 million, could step in if Marc Overmars is sold, with Lazio believed to be lining up a £15million move for the Dutch winger.

Pires said: "I have seen how playing in England has helped players like Emmanuel Petit, Patrick Vieira and Thierry Henry.

"I would love to join them at Arsenal. It would be a big benefit to me, I believe."

061817 JUN 00