Arsenal transfer news: Mathieu Debuchy to leave Gunners in next 48 hours says Arsene Wenger

Arsene Wenger says he will allow Arsenal defender Mathieu Debuchy to leave the club before the January window closes. Debuchy, 30, has made just five appearances in all competitions this season, having lost his place to Hector Bellerin.

In December, the former Newcastle United full-back admitted in an interview with RMC that he was considering a move, fearing his place in Didier Deschamps' France squad for Euro 2016 would come under threat if his situation did not improve.

Aston Villa have already made an approach for the defender, while Sunderland are also interested, although Sam Allardyce has indicated he doesn't feel the Gunners will allow the player to leave.

Wenger has indicated, however, that a move will take place in the next 48 hours, believing he has enough options at right-back in the event of a departure.

"Yes, he [Debuchy] might go somewhere, we don't know where at the moment," Wenger told a press conference ahead of the FA Cup fourth round clash with Burnley. "That decision has to be made quickly, there are only 48 hours to go. He has much interest [in him], but I have a number of people who can play right-back so I open to door for him at the moment. It is better for him because he doesn't play."

Debuchy has been displaced on the right hand side of defence by Bellerin, with Kieran Gibbs suffering a similar fate on the left. Nacho Monreal is now Wenger's undisputed first-choice at left-back, leaving Gibbs with a reduced role on the bench having started just four games this season.

Wenger however has reassured the Arsenal youth product that he still has an important role to play.

"Gibbs went through a period that was difficult for him, now he is back to full power, full commitment. He is very fit, he will get games. He is quality player, again it is competition. I understand players have targets of making squads for the Euros, but first and most important is the club. To be at the Euros is a consequence of what you do for the club."