Transfer Exclusive

Santi Cazorla, the Spanish international midfielder, who spent last season plying his trade with with the nuevo ricos from the Costa del Sol, Malaga, has set his heart on playing for Manchester City.

Hoping to follow in the footsteps of Kiki Musampa, Cazorla understands that before he realises his dream he must serve his Premier League apprenticeship at Arsenal.

Speaking on the southern radio station Miguel Maus he said:

"The prospect of playing in the Premier League for a team in blue and white and with a middle east-based owner would be a dream come true. I have enjoyed a taste of this in the sunshine state of Andalusia, but feel that the rainier climes of North West England would be more suited to my game."

When questioned further by the commentator he added:

"I understand that in order to progress to Manchester City I must first endure a season or two playing for Arsenal in London and the prospect of winning trophies there is perhaps somewhat less than it is at Malaga, but I do view this as a positive step in the right direction."

Cazorla is likely to pen a three-year contract with the Gunners with a view to move north at the end of the second year. His close friend Mikel Arteta told him:

"Look at Clichy, Nasri, even Adebayor and possibly van Persie - they all made the move from yesterday's club to the dynasty of tomorrow. You could be next, Santi."

Cazorla was seen yesterday in the Ryanair priority boarding queue at the Aeropuerto Pablo Ruiz Picasso, his destination uncertain.

A spokesperson from the Etihad said:

"This is fantastic news. Cazorla has been on our radar since he was eight and it is further evidence of the co-operation that we enjoy with our London Development Club that they are prepared to groom and school this wonderful footballer for life in the Premier League before he makes the step he really wants."

Watch this space...you read it first on VMC!!

UPCOMING GAMES:
all times East Manchester

Mon 30 Jul 13h45 Malaysia Select XI, Kuala Lumpur, Friendly (ESPN TV)
Tue 31 Jul 19h45 Oldham Athletic, Boundary Park, Friendly
Sat 04 Aug 20h30 Wolfsburg, Volkswagen Arena, Friendly (ESPN TV)
Sun 05 Aug 19h00 Limerick, Jackman Park, Friendly
Sun 12 Aug 13h30 Chelsea, Villa Park, Community Shield
Sa 18 Aug 15h00 Southampton, The Etihad PL
Sa 25 Aug 15h00 Liverpool, Anfield PL

CHAMPIONS LEAGUE FIXTURES:

The draw for the 2012/13 Champions League Group Stage will take place in Monaco on Thursday, 30th August. The opening round of games will kick off in the week commencing Monday, 17th September.

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