Arsenal will sell Francis Coquelin this month – but not to West Ham
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger admits French midfielder could be on the way out in January amid Valencia interest although switch to Hammers is not on the cards
ARSENAL are willing to let Francis Coquelin leave this month - but not for West Ham.
French midfielder Coquelin has fallen out of favour with Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger after struggling to make an impact in the Premier League this season.
West Ham boss David Moyes had been linked with a £15million move for the 26-year-old as he looks to make changes to his squad.
But though Wenger admits the end is approaching for Coquelin as a Gunners player, he has dismissed the prospect of him making the move to the Hammers.
Asked if Coquelin was leaving, Wenger said: "It's a possibility but nothing is decided.
"To West Ham? No. We have no contact with West Ham."
Having come through the academy at Arsenal there had been hopes Coquelin would go on to become a key player in the heart of the side.
But his progress has stalled over the past two seasons, often finding himself exposed to criticism for his performances in big matches.
The return to form and fitness of Jack Wilshere has meant he is now even further away from a starting place.
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And with Aaron Ramsey also nearing a return to fitness after missing the past month means Wenger is now prepared to cash in this month.
There is understood to be interest from other Premier League clubs in the midfielder, but a move abroad looks to be the most likely outcome.
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Spanish club Valencia made their interest known over the weekend, and they would be keen to reach an agreement soon for the player.
But the La Liga side are said to only want to pay £12m for his services, leaving Arsenal having to consider lowering their asking price.
Wenger is likely to be busier than usual in a Janaury transfer window, with Alexis Sanchez trying to force through a move to Manchester City.
Contract talks with Wilshere and Mesut Ozil are still ongoing, while Wenger is hoping to clinch a £25m deal with West Brom for defender Jonny Evans.