Exclusive: Eric Abidal 'Will Never Sign With Arsenal' Claims Agent

The agent of Eric Abidal has informed The International Business Times UK that the veteran Frenchman "will never sign with Arsenal" following news on Tuesday the Frenchman has extended his contract at Barcelona.

The France international has been strongly linked with a move to Arsenal over the last few months particularly during his protracted negotiations over a new contract at the Nou Camp.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has experienced a host of injuries to key personnel in his defence this season and has subsequently been associated with the aforementioned 32-year-old.

The absence of a recognised fullback on either flank was patently obvious during Arsenal's enthralling 3-2 defeat against Swansea on Sunday, when Ignasi Miquel and Johan Djourou, playing out of position, deputised for Kieran Gibbs or Andre Santos and Bacary Sagna, all of whom are currently side lined.

Abidal was just one of the names being linked with a move to Arsenal, with Kieran Richardson, Wayne Bridge, Aly Cissokho, and Maxwell others believed to be on Wenger's shortlist, but the Barcelona star's ability to play centre-half was reportedly one of the main attractions for the Emirates chief, as well as the 32-year-old's Champions League pedigree.

Although a host of publications credited Arsenal with an interest, Abidal's agent, speaking prior to the announcement of the Frenchman's new contract on Tuesday, told The IBTimes UK that the France stalwart was never considering a move to the north London Premier League club.

"The only thing I can tell you is that Eric will never sign with Arsenal." Abidal's agent David Venditelli exclusively told The International Business Times UK.

"There has been no discussion between the club, the player or our company"

Having questioned the validity of the link to Arsenal, Venditelli then suggested if it were true, then the Gunners had erred in their purported efforts to negotiate a deal.

"On the other hand, it seems that the club of London made a mistake in its strategy and especially in the choice of its interlocutor if he thought of enticing Eric." He said. "I indeed say 'if' he thought of enticing Eric!"

Venditelli's claims regarding conjecture with Arsenal came on the day Barcelona announced their veteran defender had signed an initial deal until the summer of 2013, but potentially retaining Abidal until 2015 as it can be renewed on an annual basis for a further two years.

Abidal underwent successful surgery on a tumour on his liver last year and made a triumphant return to action against Arsenal's Premier League counterparts Manchester United in last season's Champions League final. He has amassed 112 league appearances for the La Liga giants and won 60 caps for France.