Cards close to the chest

Before this weekend's Emirates Cup, the manager held a press conference where two themes predictably stood out: the future of Cesc Fabregas and the strengthening - if any - of the Arsenal squad.

Arsène Wenger reiterated that Arsenal's captain isn't for sale. I really can't be bothered to write more than that - it's the only message the club has given throughout the whole soap opera.

Wenger was also true to form when claiming that the players he already has got are good enough to win titles. Even though conceding that at least one central defender is needed, it'm more like a mathematical question.

And, yes, getting Johann Djourou back is like a new signing, or as he this time put it: "We have lost Silvestre, Campbell and Gallas and have only signed Koscielny. Djourou is coming back so you could say we have got two but are still two short."

There are a number of potential targets, but at the moment the priority seems to be Per Mertesacker, Werder Bremen's German international. The club's interest in Phil Jagielka seems to have ended with Everton being unwilling to negotiate. But these reports are, of course, all unconfirmed by the club.

Wenger's well-rehearsed lines of support for his existing players are what leaders and managers are expected to utter. Admitting defeat at this stage, two weeks before the league season, would damage morale.

But he left a little bait for all the websites and media outlets with transfer rumours to make up and report: "I have always done business very early and very late [in the transfer window]."

More on Wenger's press conference in the Daily Mirror or the Independent.