Arsene Wenger has finally spoken out about the Welbeck signing on Thursday afternoon. The Frenchman has revealed that he didn’t intend to sign the 23 year old on a permanent deal, but instead thought he was only available to loan. He also added that at the start of deadline day, he didn’t know he’d be available. It was only upon hearing Falcao had arrived that he acted. Sounds like yet another penny pinching action from the shrewd Frenchman.
Before today, Wenger was yet to comment on his new £16million signing. The silence had left some Arsenal fans sceptical about whether or not the Frenchman was the one who decided to buy the forward.
“I thought when they bought Falcao they had to let somebody go,” said Wenger. “I was not aware of the start that he would be available, it was quick, but I had no hesitation to do it.”
“At start of day, he was only available on loan. At the end of the day, I agreed.” Wenger added.
“Danny Welbeck is an ideal signing because he can play through the middle – which I think is his best position – but also through the flanks. He works for the team, he brings pace and can score goals. He is happy and confident.”
Wenger added that Welbeck’s style suited a central role and at just 23, he has plenty of time to improve, with his help of course: “He is very versatile but, if you analyse in an objective way, he has the perfect style to play through the middle. I can make himself a better player. I can help. He is a young boy, not 24 yet. Some players who arrived at the age of 23 made huge careers here.”
On his deadline day antics in Rome, Wenger intriguingly added: “If I had not travelled that day, Welbeck would not be here. The coincidence made it. If I stayed in my home, Welbeck would not be here. I will tell you that story one day. That is the truth. We are in 2014, you can always be in touch.”