Arsene Wenger says the January transfer window is an unwelcome distraction for Arsenal but revealed that he remains “open” to the possibility of signing a striker on loan this month.
The Gunners have been heavily linked with a move to bring in Real Madrid youngster Alvaro Morata on a temporary deal until the end of the season.
We have no shortage unless we have other big injuries. The transfer market is a distraction and not welcome
Arsene Wenger
Nicklas Bendtner is not expected to return from his ankle injury for another three weeks, while Theo Walcott has been ruled out until next season with knee ligament damage to leave the north Londoners short up front.
But Wenger remained typically coy when quizzed about his possible plans to strengthen his attacking line-up.
“I do not want to go into any specific names,” said Wenger. “It’s always sensitive, especially when the players play in other Premier League clubs.
“At the moment I believe we have no shortage unless we have some other big injuries. That’s why it’s important that we just continue to focus on our performances and next games.
“Nothing has changed. We are open to a possible situation and it could be a loan. I have enough players everywhere else.
“The transfer market is a distraction that for me is not welcome. I think it would be much better if there is no transfer market at all in January and that the teams start and finish with the same players, unless you have big injuries.
“What is important is that we focus on the quality of our performances because it’s a period that’s very sensitive at the moment and every game is now massive.”
Wenger also confirmed that first-choice forward Olivier Giroud is back in the squad for Arsenal’s trip to Aston Villa on Monday night.
The Gunners also have Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain available following the midfielder’s lengthy lay-off with a knee problem.