Wenger: Almunia a chance to leave

Arsene Wenger has admitted there is a chance that out-of-favour goalkeeper Manuel Almunia could leave Arsenal in January.

Almunia, 33, has not played for Arsenal since their 3-2 defeat at home to West Bromwich Albion in September 2010.

When questioned about the likelihood of Almunia departing the Emirates Stadium during the January transfer window, Wenger admitted it was a possibility.

“There is a small chance,” Wenger said.

“Yes, I have had a chat with him, but nothing is decided. We are in no-man’s land at the moment on that front.”

Carlos Vela is another player struggling for opportunities and Wenger revealed there is a queue of clubs lining up to try and secure the services of the Mexico forward.

“We have a choice and that is basically the problem because he has the choice as well and we need him to feel comfortable to go where he would like to go,” Wenger said, referring to the 21-year-old’s loan options.

“Because players of his quality on loan on a market that is very restricted money-wise, you have an abundance of clubs who want him. There are about three or four in the Premier League.”

“I would prefer him to stay in England, because it is easier for us to go and watch him, to come to conclusions as it is much easier to compare in the Premier League than if he goes to another country.”

Arsenal take on Leeds United in the FA Cup on Saturday, with Wenger set to make a number of changes to the team that drew 0-0 with Manchester City on Wednesday.

“(Aaron) Ramsey is in the squad and so is Carlos Vela,” he said.

“(Kieran) Gibbs is in the squad too. He is fit and ready to play.”

“We have problems with (Robin) Van Persie and (Sami) Nasri but they are problems of days. They are not in the squad but they should be available next week.”

“Certainly [I will rest] (Jack) Wilshere and (Laurent) Koscielny, who have played many games recently. I will rotate a little bit but we will have a strong team with only one target – to win our game tomorrow.”