Arsene Wenger admitted that Arsenal’s determination to make new signings has only intensified after Lukas Podolski suffered a torn hamstring, which will keephim out of action for at least three weeks, during the Gunners’ 2-0 win at Emirates Stadium in its UEFA Champions League qualifier against Fenerbahce. Arsenal advanced to the competition with a5-0 aggregate score in the two-game series. Aaron Ramsey and Jack Wilshere also suffered knocks during the game.
“Yes, this forces my hand,” Wenger said ofArsenal’s mounting injury list. “We have to see how bad the injuries are but I cannot tell you more than that we are on the market. The whole world knows that now but I cannot give you moreanswers at the moment.”
Angel Di María, Mesut Ozil and Iker Casillas of Real Madrid, Newcastle United’s Yohan Cabaye andChelsea’s Juan Mata have all been linked with moves to the Emirates in recent days. Mata’s father was actually present at Tuesday’s game, prompting rumors that hecould be leaving Stamford Bridge.
“I have heard like you, because I watched the game last night [between Manchester United and Chelsea] that Juan Mata could be on the market,” Wenger said. “Idon’t know … there is anyway a reluctance in England to sell to each other. I like him.”