• Premier League

Wenger 'desperate' to keep 'great' Arshavin

ESPNsoccernet staff
January 14, 2011
Arsene Wenger is planning for a busy end to the season © Getty Images
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Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger insists he will keep hold of all his players during the transfer window despite reports claiming goalkeeper Manuel Almunia and forward Andrei Arshavin are on their way out.

Almunia, who has been deposed as the Gunners' first choice 'keeper by Lukasz Fabianski, has been linked with a move to Turkish club Galatasaray and below-par Arshavin is being eyed by Serie A side Juventus.

But when asked about the possibility of any players leaving in January, Wenger said: "No, not at the moment."

"I am very happy with Arshavin. I personally believe he is a great player. He is going through a period when it is more difficult at the moment but he works very hard in training, his attitude is fantastic and I'm desperate to keep him."

Carlos Vela is expected to complete a season-long loan switch to Bolton Wanderers but Wenger ruled out the possibility of Aaron Ramsey joining Blackpool, or any other club, on a similar deal.

Wenger told Arsenal TV Online: "At the moment no because we have so many games in front of us that we want everybody to be here and available."

Arsenal head to Upton Park on Saturday to face the Premier League's bottom club, West Ham United.

© ESPN Sports Media Ltd.
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