Transfer news: Arsenal forward Gervinho close to Roma switch

Lyon also reportedly interested in the Ivory Coast international

Arsene Wenger talks to Gervinho (GETTY IMAGES)

Having being left out of the Arsenal squad for the club's pre-season tour of Asia, it would appear Gervinho is moving closer to an exit from the north London club.

The reason for Gervinho's omission is illness, however, with Roma and Lyon interested in signing him, the Ivory Coast international may have played his last game for the Gunners.

Arsenal are prepared to sell him according to the Evening Standard. After joining from Lille for £11m in 2011, Gervinho has disappointed. In his two years at the club he has scored just 11 goals.

Roma are believed to have made an offer of around £7m.

Significantly, the coach of the Serie A side, Rudi Garcia, worked with Gervinho at Lille and feels he can get him back to his best form.

It has also been reported in France that Lyon are interested, although are struggling to match Arsenal’s asking price and Gervinho’s salary.