Gibbs setback forced Wenger's hand
Nacho Monreal is the replacement for the injured Kieran Gibbs.
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has revealed that he was forced to move for Malaga's Nacho Monreal after learning that left-back Kieran Gibbs could be out for six weeks.
The Gunners forked out just over £8million for Spain international Monreal, having learned that Gibbs' thigh strain is a little more serious than they had first thought.
We were close to one more signing.Arsene Wenger
Wenger, who hinted that Monreal could feature against Stoke City on Saturday, told reporters: "We had a blow with Gibbs' injury, as he may now be out for four-six weeks, so we had to make a quick decision and that explains our buy.
"We bought him (Monreal) as a left-back, but he can also play as a left-sided midfielder. He can adapt to our style of play quickly.
"He has a good left foot, very mobile, good combination play. That is vital to how we play."
The Gunners are 1.44 to take all three points at home to the Potters on Saturday afternoon and are 1.90 to keep a clean sheet, while a drawn game can be backed at 4.50.
Meanwhile, Wenger also confirmed that he missed out on another top target on deadline day, adding: "We were close to one more signing. It didn't happen because of the desires of the clubs to sell or not to sell.
"It was not a money problem, but a desire from other clubs."
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