Harry Redknapp insists Arsenal icon wanted to play for Tottenham

Harry Redknapp insists Arsenal icon wanted to play for TottenhamHarry Redknapp has revealed how close he came to taking Patrick Vieira to Tottenham after the Frenchman had left Arsenal and continued his career elsewhere.Vieira remains an Arsenal icon because of his contribution to the club’s success, particularly during their unbeaten Premier League title-winning campaign in 2003/04. His achievements at the Emirates have ensured that he is fondly remembered by supporters, but his legacy in north London could have been very different had he accepted an offer to join Tottenham.Redknapp, who enjoyed a successful spell in charge of Spurs, has now explained how he personally approached the former midfielder about a possible move. The manager had a strong reputation among players, and Vieira was willing to meet him to discuss the possibility of joining the club.Redknapp reveals meeting with VieiraRedknapp recalled visiting Vieira at his home, where they spent several hours discussing the potential transfer. The former Tottenham manager believes the Frenchman was genuinely interested in the move and was prepared to consider playing for Arsenal’s north London rivals.Speaking via Football London, Redknapp explained that Vieira was keen on the idea, although the transfer ultimately failed to materialise.“He was up for it, and then he got a better offer or whatever. I went to his house, sat in his house, had a cup of tea with him for two or three hours. He was keen. He’d been a great player at Arsenal, but he was willing to come and play at Tottenham. He wanted to. Otherwise, he wouldn’t have met me that day. He was up for it.”Patrick Vieira (Getty Images)A move that never materialisedDespite the positive discussions, Vieira eventually received another offer, and the proposed switch to Tottenham did not happen. Redknapp has not suggested that an agreement was completed, but his account indicates that the possibility was taken seriously by both men.A move across north London would have been a remarkable development given Vieira’s standing at Arsenal. The midfielder had played a major role in one of the most memorable periods in the club’s history, making the prospect of him representing Tottenham particularly striking.For Redknapp, however, the meeting remains evidence that Vieira was open to the idea. The transfer never took place, leaving Arsenal supporters able to remember him without seeing their former captain in a Spurs shirt._____________________________________________________________________________________________ADMIN COMMENTSo here are some simple rules which I must insist commenters follow….You agree not to give any personal abuse to other Arsenal fans. Everyone is allowed to hold their own opinions even if you disagree with them. It COSTS NOTHING TO BE POLITE TO OTHER ARSENAL FANS.CALLING ALL ARSENAL FANS! Anyone who would like to contribute an Article or Video opinion piece on JustArsenal, don’t hesitate to get in touch with us through this link…