Besiktas boss Aybaba denies interest in Arsenal's Chamakh

Jul 23, 2012 11:30:00 AM

The Turkish outfit were linked with a possible move for the striker at the end of last week, but the 56-year-old has confirmed that the Moroccan is not currently a target

Beskitas boss Samet Aybaba has denied reports claiming that the club want to sign Arsenal striker Marouane Chamakh.

The Moroccan has endured a torrid time at the Emirates over the last year, scoring just once in 19 appearances as he slipped down the Gunners' pecking order in attack.

It was reported in Milliyet on Friday that the Turkish giants were prepared to offer the 28-year-old an escape route, but their manager has now quelled such speculation.

Speaking to the press about the club’s transfer activity – including the recent acquisition of former Sevilla defender Julien Escude – Aybaba said: "We needed a defender like Escude and I think our defence will be stronger with him. We're not attempting to sign Marouane Chamakh."

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Chamakh joined the Gunners from Ligue 1 side Bordeaux in the summer of 2010.

He enjoyed a fine start to his career at the Emirates, scoring eight goals in as many games, before a dip in form saw him lose his place in the side.

After playing a bit-part role last season, and following the summer arrivals of Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski, it is widely predicted that the Tonneins-born player will quit north London in the near future.

Arsenal are currently on pre-season tour duties in the Far East.

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