Wenger confident of signing Mata for Arsenal from Valencia

Arsene Wenger is still confident of signing Juan Mata for Arsenal from Valencia, reports the Mirror. The paper claims AW has been talking to Valencia throughout, and to Mata’s agent – who is also the player’s Dad.

Mata, 23, had a fixed-price clause in his contract of around £18million but that figure increased after July 31, it is reported. AW remains confident he will be able to agree a fee for the winger.

The Mirror says it is believed Mata wants to join Arsenal and that his signing would give the club a huge lift, as Cesc Fabregas set to join Barcelona.

The Sun claims Man City are confident they will bag Arsenal star Samir Nasri with a “take it or leave it” bid of £22million. Er, leave it, ta.

Meanwhile, the Mail says Jack Wilshere will hope to relieve some of the pressure on AW today when the midfielder has a scan on an ankle injury.

The same paper claims Newcastle’s decision to allow Joey Barton to leave on a free transfer has “sparked a scramble” between Arsenal, Manchester United and T********, who all want to talk to the midfielder.

Elsewhere there are reports that Arsenal have broken off negotiations over the proposed transfer of Mateo Kovacic, after dismissing Dinamo Zagreb’s asking price for the midfielder.

And Nicklas Bendtner has been given a chance to stay in the Barclays Premier League by Stoke City. He seemed to off to Sporting Lisbon in a £9million deal last week but Tony Pulis has made an enquiry for the Dane.

CARL ELDRIDGE – Follow me on Twitter @eldomedia