Arsene Wenger reiterates Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri will stay at Arsenal

Posted Monday, July 11, 2011 by YAHOO Sport

Arsene Wenger has assured Arsenal fans that midfield duo Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri will both be at the club next season.

Fabregas remains a target for Barcelona. Nasri, whose contract expires at the Emirates next summer, has been the subject of intense interest from both Manchester clubs.

Asked whether Nasri will stay at the club, Wenger replied, "Yes, why not?"

"If you ask me two different questions, one, will he be at the club next season? I say yes," the boss added. "Second part [of the question], will he sign a new contract? I hope, yes, but I'm not the only one to decide that."

Reports suggest Manchester United has already had a 20 million pounds bid for Nasri rejected, while a subsequent 22 million pounds offer for the 24-year-old from City is believed to have been seriously considered by Arsenal.

"There is always speculation, but he is committed to the club right now," Wenger said.

Wenger retains the stance that Fabregas will not be sold to the Spanish club this summer and the Emirates boss maintains his side must concentrate on the season ahead with their captain.

"Cesc loves the club and hopefully we'll manage. We know that this story for Barcelona has gone on for years now, we have to close that and focus on the season, hopefully with Cesc Fabregas," said Wenger.

"I never speak on matters that happen behind closed doors. I have given the media enough headlines and I don't want to add any more."

The Gunners have flown out to Malaysia to begin its tour of the Far East, but Fabregas has not traveled due to an injury.