• Premier League

France boss tells Nasri to quit Arsenal

ESPN staff
August 10, 2011
Samir Nasri looks to set to stay at Arsenal, against his will © PA Photos
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France manager Laurent Blanc has risked Arsene Wenger's wrath by urging midfielder Samir Nasri to end his spell at Arsenal as soon as possible.

Nasri's contract at the Emirates runs out at the end of the upcoming season, and he has no intention of putting pen to paper on fresh terms with the Gunners.

Nonetheless, Arsene Wenger remains determined to keep hold of Nasri - even if it means surrendering him on a free transfer in summer 2012. Arsenal have reportedly rejected bids from both Manchester City and Manchester United as they try and avoid the prospect of losing Nasri and Cesc Fabregas, a target for Barcelona, in the same transfer window.

Now it seems the exit door has slammed in Nasri's face, as Wenger named him in Arsenal's Champions League squad for the play-off against Udinese. The 24-year-old is suspended for the first leg in London, but will be unable to play for another team in the competition if he gets on the field for the second leg.

And Blanc has told Arsenal to bring an end to their stubborn resistance. "Unless you have proof of the contrary, Nasri is an Arsenal player," Blanc said. "That's it, I don't know more. I just know that he is in talks with his club. Not to extend his contract because he said he would not, but to change club.

"I personally can't wait for this to happen, because psychologically, it is never easy to play in a team and to not be sure whether you will start the season or leave. I admit it, it can be disturbing really.

"But like I said, he will not end up without a club. And when you look at the candidates (to recruit him), I wouldn't complain if I were in his position. But if all this could end quite rapidly, it would be better for us."

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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