Arsene Wenger has admitted at his media briefing on Monday that Francis Coquelin could leave Arsenal this month but ruled out the possibility he could join West Ham.
The Daily Mirror has claimed that the Hammers are keen to sign Coquelin, 26, this month as they eye central midfield reinforcements and the player could be available for £10million.
Wenger did not dismiss the possibility of the fringe Frenchman leaving but is adamant it will not be to the east London club.
Asked if Coquelin could leave, the Arsenal manager said, as quoted by the Mirror live blog of his press conference (9.20am): “It’s a possibility but nothing is decided. It would not be for West Ham.
“We have no contact with West Ham. The transfer window should be banned to keep our like a bit more focused on football.”
Coquelin has made 13 appearances for Arsenal this season, but he has started just a single Premier League match.
Good move for West Ham?
The 26-year-old has heaps of Premier League experience, having made 105 Premier League appearances, and would be an ideal signing as West Ham battle relegation. Coquelin is not the pass master that many Hammers fans crave, but he is a sound performer who can provide the foundation for others to thrive and is that rarity at Arsenal, a communicator and leader who doesn’t mind getting stuck in. At £10million, he would be a bargain.
This is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
Wenger often talks with a forked tongue when it comes to transfers, but he was emphatic on the possibility of Coquelin moving to the London Stadium. It appears this deal has been stopped in its tracks.
This is Futbol rating: 2/10