Arsenal's reputation as a financially frugal club may create problems when it comes to convincing players to join them, but Sutton United goalkeeper Wayne Shaw is willing to forego the big wages and sign for the Gunners in exchange for some baked pastries.
Sutton goalie defends pie-eating antics
The 23-stone reserve goalkeeper has hit the spotlight after being pictured eating a pie during his side’s 2-0 FA Cup fifth round defeat to the Gunners on Monday night.
His manager Paul Doswell was left unimpressed with the 45-year-old’s antics but he has brushed it off as "just a bit of banter".
Shaw, who is well and truly enjoying his moment in the spotlight, appeared on ITV's Good Morning Britain on Tuesday morning to discuss the match.
The goalkeeper is out of contract at Sutton at the end of this season and was was asked by host Piers Morgan if he would consider a switch to the Emirates.
"We have a big problem with our defence at the moment," said Morgan. "We could do with a big unit in goal like you. Are you ready for a transfer? Can I facilitate it?
"Most of our players get about £40,000 a day for doing, what I see as, very little. What would it take to prize you and your pies out of Sutton to Arsenal?"
Shaw then pointed towards the plate of four pastries in the studio and replied: "I think two more than the four you've got there.”
Morgan then pressed further asking: "So let me just clarify, for six Cornish pasties you will sign for Arsenal."
"Definitely," replied Shaw with a laugh.
Despite his joke, Shaw could still be in hot water for breaking betting rules after admitting he was aware Sun Bets had offered odds of 8-1 for him to eat a pie “live on air” before tucking into his snack.