Arsenal didn't need Depay, says Wenger

The 21-year-old was courted by Paris Saint-Germain and Liverpool before moving to Manchester United but the Gunners boss insists he has options in attacking midfield

Arsene Wenger says he passed up the chance to compete with Manchester United for Memphis Depay because Arsenal have “plenty” of players in the Dutchman’s position.

United announced on Thursday that they have agreed a deal believed to be worth around €27.5 million with PSV to sign the 21-year-old as Louis van Gaal begins his summer recruitment early.

PSV sporting director Marcel Brands revealed that Paris Saint-Germain also held advanced talks over signing Depay while Liverpool also made their interest known, but Wenger insists he has too many attacking midfielders to consider the Netherlands international a key target.

When asked why Arsenal didn’t move for Depay, Wenger replied: “I like the player but that’s a position where we have plenty.”

The Frenchman also reiterated that Arsenal will be active in the summer transfer window but insists he will only sign players who will drastically improve his squad.

“We have a squad of top quality,” Wenger added. “If we can strengthen our squad then of course we will do it.”

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