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29 March 2024

Wenger fears star exodus from Arsenal

Arsenal skipper Robin Van Persie may be on his way out next season. (FILE)

Published
By Staff

Arsene Wenger confirmed the worse fears of Arsenal fans when he admitted that the Gunners cannot compete financially with other cash-rich Premier League clubs.

Wenger expressed fears that Arsenal could lose no less than five stars next year including skipper Robin van Persie if they fail to finish in the top four.

Theo Walcott, Thomas Vermaelen, Andrey Arshavin and Johan Djourou are the other stars who are in the final season of their contracts.
 
Having lost a bitter battle during the close season to retain Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasir, Wenger revealed a crisis brewing at Emirates Club.

Wenger told The Sun (https://bit.ly/olc6or): "We will try to sign them but we have tried before. The gap on that front has become bigger for us. I cannot say that if we go to our maximum wage we are sure to sign the players.
 
"We will try to convince them. Our desire is there and we are ready to sit down with them. After that we will see where we go."
 
Wenger was unable to promise that the star quintet will stay — although he may be happy to ditch Arshavin and Djourou.
 
Nasri, with just a year left of his deal, joined Manchester City for £22 million last month as he could have signed on a free transfer next year.
 
Fabregas also joined Barcelona despite Arsenal's best efforts to keep him.
 
Van Persie is Wenger's priority and could take his pick from any club. He is currently on £80,000 a week.
 
The Dutch striker is unlikely to commit until next year as he is waiting to see whether Arsenal finish in a top spot.
 
If they fail to land a European place, it could be difficult for Wenger to hold on to Walcott, Arshavin and Vermaelen.
 

 

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