Petit deal was a Gas

DUTCH agent Rob Jansen has revealed how former Arsenal vice-chairman David Dein sealed a £36million deal to sell Marc Overmars to Barcelona – by giving the Catalan club Emmanuel Petit for free.

Jansen, who has just brokered Ronald Koeman’s contract as Nou Camp boss, recalled how Dein exploited an election promise made by Jean Gaspart in 2000 when he was bidding to become Barca president.

Gaspart had promised fans he would sign winger Overmars and midfielder Petit if they voted for him.

And Jansen revealed: “When Gaspart won, he went straight to the house of Dein. Gaspart asked Dein how much he wanted for Overmars and Petit.

“He was shocked when David asked for £36m because it was a world record. So Gaspart looked at Dein and said, ‘So how much if I don’t take Petit?’.

“Stone-faced, Dein said, ‘I want the same amount. You can have Petit for free!’. Gaspart had to agree.”