“Arsenal have finally offered Thierry Henry a contract to return to the club on a two-month loan,” the report reads.
“With Gervinho and Marouane Chamakh heading to the Africa Cup of Nations next month, the Arsenal manager [Arsene Wenger] has concluded that top scorer Robin van Persie needs help to lighten his scoring burden.”
Henry has been practicing with Arsenal since mid-November. The Red Bulls’ offseason stretches from November-March, and the French international could see a two-month stint in the Premier League as an ideal way to ensure he starts his third MLS season in peak condition. Arsenal probably wouldn’t make the offer if a player it’s had in its midst for six weeks was not interested.
“Henry has impressed with his sharpness, attitude and effect on the Arsenal squad,” the report adds. “He has become increasingly in favor of a return to the club and was moved to tears when a statue of him was unveiled at the Emirates this month.
The deal makes also financial sense for the MLS and the Red Bulls. Henry’s contract pays him a league-high $5.6 million (£3.6 million). The cash-rich Gunners will likely cover all or part of his salary for the duration of the loan, and may even pay the Red Bulls a small fee for his services. Both clubs can work out an insurance policy to cover his wages in the event of injury.
Seven Premier League, one UEFA Champions League and at least one FA Cup games take place during the reported time span. If the 34-year-old forward joins on Jan. 1, he would be available to play a part in all of them.
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Photo via Flickr/TITIDEN1412
