'I'm not spending to please the fans,' says Wenger, but chase for prolific Villa goes on
Arsene Wenger insists he will delve into the transfer market only if the right player becomes available and will resist the temptation to make a signing to satisfy supporters’ demands.
The Arsenal manager admits his side would benefit from a top-quality addition – David Villa fits that bill and they hope to reach an imminent agreement with Barcelona for his transfer – but refuses to be pressurised into recruiting a player who would hamper the development of young talent.
'I have to be strong enough to resist,' said Wenger, who was speaking ahead of tonight’s Barclays Premier League clash with Liverpool and who has allowed David Beckham to train with the club even though the former England captain will not be signing for them.
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'What is important is that you bring in players who can strengthen your team, or you do nothing, you’re strong enough to do nothing.
'We could do with top quality, one more, but you have to find him.
'If I bring a normal player in, I give the club a problem.
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'It is for four years and I am stopping the young players to give him a chance. The second thing is even more damaging because we have two or three young players with a good chance to play for us.'
One target whose potential transfer may be easier than Villa's is West Ham midfielder Mohamed Diame after manager Sam Allardyce revealed he could yet be sold before tomorrow's transfer deadline.
The Senegalese has consistently impressed since his summer arrival from Wigan, and Allardyce said: 'There are certain situations where, yes, we might lose the player. I hope we don't.'
Reluctant: Wenger will not spend for the sake of it
'It can change between now and 11pm on Thursday, in the flick of a text, or an e-mail, or a phone call.'