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Gunner go again

Arsene Wenger refuses to rule out Thomas Lemar move in January but says NO to Riyad Mahrez

Arsenal manager said main concern with transfers right now is keeping his current squad together

ARSENE WENGER has refused to rule out entirely a move for Thomas Lemar in January.

But the Arsenal boss has categorically stated that Leicester's Premier League winner Riyad Mahrez is NOT part of his transfer plans.

 Arsene Wenger has refused to rule out a January move for Thomas Lemar
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Arsene Wenger has refused to rule out a January move for Thomas LemarCredit: Reuters

Monaco midfielder Lemar was linked with a switch to the Emirates all summer.

But Wenger failed with a stunning £92million move for the 21-year-old France star on deadline day.

Barcelona and Liverpool have also been linked with a move for Lemar.

And Monaco vice-president Vadim Vasilyev recently admitted the club may need to flog one of their brightest stars - but not until next summer.

 Thomas Lemar could yet become an Arsenal player in January
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Thomas Lemar could yet become an Arsenal player in JanuaryCredit: AFP
 Arsene Wenger appears not to have given up on his chase for Thomas Lemar
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Arsene Wenger appears not to have given up on his chase for Thomas LemarCredit: PA:Press Association

Speaking today ahead of the Europa League clash against Red Star Belgrade on Thursday, Wenger refused to shut the door entirely on Lemar having a future in North London.

Asked about going back in for the attacking force, the Frenchman said: "No, at the moment I have a big squad and the problem for me is to keep everyone together until the end of the season.


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"In January, I don't know yet."

However the Emirates chief was more certain on Mahrez.

 Riyad Mahrez will not be part of Arsenal's transfer business
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Riyad Mahrez will not be part of Arsenal's transfer businessCredit: Reuters
 Arsene Wenger said his current preoccupation is keeping his squad together
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Arsene Wenger said his current preoccupation is keeping his squad togetherCredit: PA:Press Association

The former Premier League Player of the Year has looked a shadow of himself since the Foxes' unbelievable 5,000-1 triumph.

And despite showing the occasional flash of brilliance, it looks like there will be no January switch for him.

Asked about the chance of Mahrez featuring in Arsenal's transfer plans, Wenger said simply: "No."

Arsenal target Thomas Lemar scores superb solo goal to help Monaco beat Bordeaux 2-0 in Ligue 1
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