Barcelona Rule Out Selling Arsenal Target David Villa

Despite the transfer window being closed, there is always transfer gossip doing the rounds in the papers and we’ll keep you up-to-date with the latest news during the coming months. Today, Barcelona rule out selling David Villa.

It looks like we might have to keep searching for a new striker as Barcelona have ruled out selling striker David Villa in January amid reported interest from Arsenal, according to Sky Sports News.

Villa has struggled to secure first team football at the Nou Camp since returning from a broken leg and Sky Sports claim Arsenal are keen on signing the Spanish international when the transfer window re-opens next month.

However, Barca director of football Andoni Zubizarreta has insisted the 31-year-old will remain with the Catalan giants until at least the end of the season and he’s still considered an important part of the Barcelona squad.

“In January we will keep Villa and it is important to remember that Barcelona is a club that habitually does not accept offers for star players in January,”

“David is a player that brings goals and intensity to the team.

“Now he has recovered from a serious injury I believe that he is offering a good level on the field.

“It is normal that big players desire to play and this is perfect for the competition in the squad.” Zubizarreta is quoted as saying by Sky Sports

I said when I first heard the rumours linking Villa with Arsenal that I just couldn’t see Barca letting him go in the middle of the season. The deal was always highly unlikely in my book, so i’m not surprised to hear the Catalans confirming he won’t be sold next month.

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There are more realistic targets out there, Newcastle’s Demba Ba would be a good option in my opinion, so lets hope Arsene makes a move for him when the transfer window re-opnes in a few days time.

Who would you like to see Arsenal sign in January? Get involved in the comments section below.