Wenger Plans For Next Campaign

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is already making plans for the next campaign but insisted that he is not in the market for David Villa.

The highly-rated Valencia striker has made his admiration for the Gunners known. He is expected to form a partnership with Liverpool’s Fernando Torres at Euro 2008 this summer. However, Wenger says he is more concerned with keeping the current squad together and feels it is his defense rather than his attack that would be a priority if he is to bolster.

“My first priority is to keep the team together,” said the Frenchman. “We want to continue to respect our wages structure because I feel that is very important.” In response to Villa’s comments, Wenger added that he made a big compliment to the team. “We have many requests from players who want to join. But I feel up front I need to give time to Theo Walcott and Nicklas Bendtner because they have made big improvement for me this season.

Wenger also has to consider Mathieu Flamini’s future and William Gallas’ captaincy. Flamini has been given until the end of the month to decide whether he will sign a contract or leave on a free transfer in the summer. Wenger wants him in his midfield next season but whether he gives Gallas the armband again is another matter after the skipper’s leadership came under scrutiny during Arsenal’s recent collapse.

Gallas was not in his own half when Birmingham scored a last gasp penalty at St. Andrews. He then reacted to the 2-2 draw by lashing out at an advertising board. He has also been outspoken about Walcott and was recently highlighted by pundits for a lack of communication with his teammates. When he acknowledged a penalty against Manchester United and Cristiano Ronaldo scored, Arsenal’s hopes of silverware were crushed.

Wenger hasn't indicated whether or not Gallas will be captain next season. He says that he wants to analyze the season after it's over. Gallas will be his captain until the end of the season. Gallas has learned a lot this year and his commitment to the team has been exceptional. The team has been criticized but overall the team has made good progress this season.

Flamini could be an option as skipper if he agrees to a new deal. “We are getting close to a decision,” Wenger said. “He says he wants to stay and I believe him. But as long as he has not signed a contract, for me he is free to sign where he wants.”nnnn