Pardew: Defoe going nowhere for £5m

West Ham manager Alan Pardew has categorically ruled out selling Jermain Defoe to Arsenal for £5m (€7.2m).

Pardew allowed David James to join Manchester City this week but is determined not to let Defoe leave despite reports of an opening bid from the Gunners.

Yet he admitted a higher offer from Arsenal, Chelsea or Manchester United would give him the funds he needs to rebuild his threadbare squad.

Pardew said: "The figure of £5m has been mentioned. But there's no way Jermain will be going to Arsenal for £5m I can assure you.

"There's been no interest from any Premiership club for Jermain with a bid. I talk to managers and he's discussed, but no more than that.

"I think it would be foolish to suggest he's going nowhere. I don't want Jermain to go but the top three have a power we can't match. We are susceptible.

"If he goes the money that will release to me will give me a fantastic chance of building a team."