Wenger Confirms Thierry Henry Loan is Unlikely

Arsene Wenger has ruled out the possibility of signing former striker Thierry Henry on loan. There were reports the 35 year old ex-French international, now with American Major League Soccer (MLS) side New York Red Bulls, could repeat his January loan spell of last season.

The Gunners' legend spent eight seasons with Wenger, scoring 226 goals in 369 appearances before leaving for Spanish giants Barcelona in 2007. Henry returned on loan last year, scoring twice more. And with the club's stuttering form, it was believed Wenger would look once again to his former star.

"I do not think it would be good for him [Thierry Henry] to play with us again. He should relax and prepare for the next MLS season," the north London club boss explained.

The comment suggests Arsenal are considering longer-term alternatives. The club have been linked with moves for Newcastle United's Demba Ba, Schalke 04 striker Klaas-Jan Huntelaar and Spanish strikers David Villa and Adrian Lopez in recent weeks, among a host of other names.

However, Dutch forward Huntelaar has only just signed a contract extension with the Bundesliga club and is unlikely to move for now. Barcelona striker Villa would have been a fantastic signing for Arsenal but with reports European champions Chelsea are also interested, Wenger will probably shy away from a bidding war for the 31 year old World Cup winner.

Atletico Madrid striker Adrian Lopez remains a possibility though, with earlier reports suggesting Wenger was keen on a January move for the Spaniard; the fact Adrian is only 24 years old is likely to weigh heavily in his favour.

Meanwhile, Senegalese striker Demba Ba does have a bargain £7m release clause in his contract with the St James' Park club but the 27 year old now claims he would prefer a move to French Ligue 1 club Paris St Germain (PSG).

"I look at PSG as a fan, as a supporter. I have never concealed my attraction to the club as a fan, which I have been since I was little. Now they are doing big and important things, and have big plans for the future. Of course I'd like to play in the colours of a team I support. As I've said where Arsenal are concerned, now isn't the time to leave the Magpies," the former Watford youngster explained.