Wenger: Keen on Barry

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Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has refused to quell speculation suggesting the club may be set to move for Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry.

England international Barry has been strongly linked with a transfer away from Villa Park this summer.

Liverpool have made no secret of their interest in the 27-year-old, however a transfer has so far failed to materialise.

Wenger hinted on Thursday that he is still in the market to strengthen his side following the surprise capture of Mikael Silvestre from Manchester United.

The Frenchman is thought to be keen to land a central midfielder, and he has openly admitted his liking of Barry - who would be ineligible for the group stages of the UEFA Champions League.

Medical

"There is always interest," Wenger said. "I cannot tell you much more. He's one of the players we follow.

"I find Barry a good player. The problems with players who are 27, 28 is that you pay big money but you get nothing back, no resale."

On the shock signing of Silvestre, Wenger added in the Daily Express: "He was in advanced talks with Manchester City already.

"I don't know whether he finished the medical or not, he can explain to you, but I heard he was completely free."

Arsene Wenger was speaking at University College Hospital in London, where Arsenal announced their nomination of the Teenage Cancer Trust as their dedicated charity this season.