No one on shopping list, says Wenger

The Gunners are in the market for some attacking cover following the season-ending knee injury to England forward Theo Walcott.

However, with Nicklas Bendtner set to return to the squad from an ankle injury for tonight’s FA Cup fourth-round tie against Coventry and Yaya Sanogo also closing in on full match fitness, Wenger does not appear overly concerned about Arsenal’s attacking options.

Wenger was photographed at Heathrow Airport on Wednesday, sparking rumours of a dash to Europe to seal a transfer.

However, Arsenal sources insist the manager was on a personal trip rather than setting off for a scouting mission.

Indeed, Wenger himself insisted yesterday that suggestions he was watching Levante being beaten by Barcelona and keeping an eye on Cristian Tello were wide of the mark.

Nevertheless, Arsenal continue to be linked with Schalke’s Germany international Julian Draxler and also Mirko Vucinic of Juventus, the Montenegro forward.

Wenger, though, stressed he had not yet lined up any bids.

“Unfortunately no. I feel a bit guilty always going to a press conference during the transfer market and having nobody to announce, but I don’t want to lie,” the Arsenal manager said.

“It (new signings) looks very unlikely. We are 23rd January today and at the moment I must say we are not close to doing anything.”

Wenger feels bringing in new faces does not necessarily make the squad stronger.

He added: “If something exceptional turns up we will do it, but not everyone will strengthen — they buy, but that does not always mean strengthen.”

Arsenal are hopeful of extending the contracts of Per Mertesacker, Bacary Sagna and Rosicky, as well of course as securing Wenger’s own future.

Captain Thomas Vermaelen, currently sidelined by a knee problem, is another Wenger would like to retain.

“I have a high respect for his qualities and attitude and I am ready to extend his contract,” said Wenger of the Belgium defender.

Wenger confirmed he intended to use a strong squad against the League One side tonight, with Arsenal’s next League match not until Tuesday night.