Nasri move 'long way off'

Manager Arsene Wenger has claimed that sought-after midfielder Samir Nasri is happy at Arsenal and that any deal for his possible departure is a long way from completion.

Nasri has been expected to leave the Emirates Stadium this summer after reported interest from big-spending Manchester City.

Wenger has, however, warned that the France international could yet stay at the Gunners as his potential move has become more uncertain.

Nasri was a surprise starter in Arsenal’s 2-0 defeat at home to Liverpool yesterday and, with 10 days to go before the transfer window ends, he hinted the 24-year-old may yet remain in north London.

“He is happy here. There is no departure of Nasri at the moment,” Wenger told French media outlet TF1.

“Maybe one day, but it’s far, far, far from being done.”

Nasri’s departure would leave the Gunners severely undermanned in midfield after Cesc Fabregas completed his protracted move to his hometown club Barcelona last week.

To add to Wenger’s problems he is also without Alex Song and Gervinho due to suspension while Emmanuel Frimpong, who made his starting league debut yesterday, will also serve a ban after he saw red against Liverpool.