By Arsene Wenger’s own admission, the focus for much of the rest of the transfer window will be on outgoings rather than who could be joining us.
But will Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Jack Wilshere be among those who could be on the way out?
This is what the manager said in his press conference:
on whether he expects a busy end to the transfer window…
Getting players out keeps you as busy as getting players in. I think I will be busy, yes.
on whether the Ox will be here at the end of the season…
Yes.
on why he thinks that…
Personally, because I rate him highly and he’s one of the players who is on his way up. In the last year, he has made huge progress and I want him to stay here for a long time. I’m convinced he will be the English player that everybody will look at in the next two years.
on if he’ll keep Ox no matter what…
Yes, I have regular conversations with the players where I tell them where I stand and they know what I want and where I stand on that front.
on whether Jack’s future is here for the final year of his contract…
At the moment, yes. I think I plan for him to be here for the whole season, after we will see at the end of the season.
on Lucas…
There’s a possibility [he could leave this month]. I opened the door for him because I have many strikers. If he finds a good opportunity, I will help him.
on if he’s pleased that transfer requests haven’t been handed in…
Yes, I’m very happy about that, because I believe it’s important that you have a serene atmosphere inside, and clarity as well about your commitment. That’s why we spoke about the transfer window. It’s important that the players are not half in and half out, but completely in.
on if club is strong enough financially to potentially run down high-profile contracts…
Look, let’s not be wrong, it’s not an ideal situation on the financial side and it demands some sacrifice but first of all it doesn’t mean the players who are in the final year of their contract will not extend their contract. You have still that possibility and we work on that as well.
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