Arsenal Transfer News: Asmir Begovic To Snub Gunners And Stay At Stoke

Metro. The Bosnian international has been one of the in-form goalkeepers in the Premier League over the last two seasons which has led to interest from the likes of the Gunners, who are reportedly looking for a replacement for their current No.1 Wojciech Szczesny. The Pole has only played four games since March 16th after his father made derogative comments about Arsene Wenger and he has only been playing recently due to injury sustained by No.2 Lukasz Fabianski. Arsenal were linked with a £15 million swoop for Begovic as a replacement but Wenger will now have to think again. "As long as Stoke want me, I am contracted," said the Bosnian.

"I know football is a business and we will see what happens. You never know what is around the corner, but as far as I am concerned I am planning to be here. "I am happy here and I am desperate to help the club push forward. We all want to win trophies and be as successful as we can, that is the main aim. "I do have ambitions to play at the highest level and test myself if the opportunity arises. I can€™t think too much ahead. I am just thinking about here. I am contracted and there€™s nothing more I can say."
Stoke boss Tony Pulis has previously insisted he will do all he can to keep hold of his No.1 goalkeeper, but the January signing of Jack Butland from Birmingham City coupled with his imminent summer arrival had raised question marks over Begovic's long-term future with the Potters. Arsene Wenger may now turn his attentions to other high-profile targets such as Chelsea's Petr Cech, Liverpool's Pepe Reina and Victor Valdes of Barcelona as he looks to add some steel to his defence ahead of next season.

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Joseph is an accredited football journalist and has interviewed nearly all of the current 20 Barclay's Premier League managers. He is also a correspondent for Bleacher Report and has written for Caught Offside and Give Me Football.