'We were close to signing Marouane Chamakh'

Arsène Wenger could reignite his interest in Bordeaux striker Marouane Chamakh in January if the Arsenal manager feels the Club needs to strengthen up front.

There was heavy media speculation over the summer linking Chamakh with a move to Emirates Stadium but the transfer never materialised.

Wenger has confirmed that the Gunners did come close to making the purchase during the transfer window, and the Frenchman hasn't ruled out making a bid for the 25-year-old in the future.

"He is a player we were close to signing," said Wenger. "At the moment we have lost a little bit of touch with him because there is no transfer period.

"We might reconsider the position if it is needed in January."