Gibbs left Arsenal for West Bromwich Albion last week, but it appears he could have been a Birmingham City player instead.
Kieran Gibbs in action for Arsenal
West Bromwich Albion left-back Kieran Gibbs turned down a move to Birmingham City, according to a report on page 46 of Monday’s Sun newspaper.
Gibbs left Arsenal for West Brom in a £7 million deal last week (Transfermarkt), but it appears he could have ended up a Birmingham player instead.
Harry Redknapp’s side had previously done deals for Arsenal pair Carl Jenkinson and Cohen Bramall, who plays in Gibbs’ position, and are said to have failed in an attempt to sign a third Gunners player, Jack Wilshere.
Jack Wilshere in action for Arsenal U23s
The report leads on Wilshere’s alleged snub, and claims Birmingham were prepared to pay the England midfielder £90,000-a-week to sign.
It adds: “Gibbs also turned down the Blues, going from Arsenal to West Brom.”
And while no explanation is given for Gibbs’ decision, it is likely – considering the money said to have been on offer to Wilshere – that the chance to remain in the Premier League was a significant factor.
Sebastien Bassong in action for Norwich City
Meanwhile, HITC Sport understands Birmingham are close to signing the former Norwich City defender Sebastien Bassong, who can also provide left-back cover.
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