Wenger – Sanogo Could Leave

Manager Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Yaya Sanogo could leave on loan during January to gain some valuable experience, but he would prefer he moved to a Premier League team rather than abroad.

The French under 21 striker scored his first goal for the club in the match against Borussia Dortmund back on November, but has since spent most of the time on the sidelines injured.

Speaking to the Official Site ahead of the game against Southampton, Wenger confirmed he most definitely would’ve come into contention had he been available owing to the suspension to Olivier Giroud and Danny Welbeck’s injury.

‘He would have been the right option, but he’s got a minor hamstring injury. Before that his gum was infected and he was under antibiotics. A loan is a possibility. I would prefer him to go to a Premier League club. He is a goalscorer and he’s not frightened. He’s a guy who is naturally aggressive and in the modern game that’s a vital quality.’

Sanogo has already been linked with moves back to France with Bordeaux and Lorient apparently expressing an interest, and the press are also saying that Aston Villa are in ‘pole position’ for his services this window, following the managerial change at Crystal Palace who were said to have got a deal lined up already under Neil Warnock.

The Mirror especially, also suggest that we have ‘sounded out’ Sunderland, Burnley and Stoke, but it’s not known yet if they have firmed up any interest.