Arsenal boss takes angry swipe at Real Madrid transfer tactics

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has taken another dig at Real Madrid over their tactics of trying to prise Patrick Vieira from Highbury.

"It's hard to know how directly they are involved in any negotiations or whether the president is behind them. It's very difficult to find a clear guideline in terms of their attitude and behaviour," he said.

Wenger also ruled out selling Vieira in January.

"Losing Patrick at any time would be disruptive because he's impossible to replace in his position," said Wenger. "But if you face that kind of news in May, you can look for players. In January, that would be almost impossible."

"I agree that the fans have perhaps not been reassured by Patrick saying nothing about what he wants to do."

"But I am convinced that eventually he will say he wants to stay. Why am I convinced? I can't tell you that but I say again, I don't expect to lose Patrick."