Wenger rubbishes Defoe talk

Reports in the media had suggested that The Gunners had tabled a £5 million bid for the England Under-21 hit-man, but the Frenchman has rebuffed the claim.

"We have not made an enquiry, we have not made a bid and we have no plans to make a bid," stated the Highbury chief.

West Ham manager Alan Pardew insisted there was no chance of Defoe leaving Upton Park for £5 million, but accepted he could not rule out the possibility of the 21-year-old being sold.

"The figure of £5 million has been mentioned. But there's no way Jermain will be going to Arsenal for £5 million," declared Pardew.

"There's been no interest from any Premiership club for Jermain with a bid. I talk to managers and he's discussed, but no more than that.

"However, I think it would be foolish to suggest he's going nowhere. I don't want Jermain to go, but the top three have a power we can't match.

"We are susceptible. If he goes, the money that will be released to me will give me a fantastic chance of building a team."

Meanwhile, David Seaman has admitted he would like to return to Arsenal as a goalkeeping coach in the future.

The Highbury legend announced his retirement on Tuesday after sustaining a shoulder injury, but the 40-year-old has no intention of turning his back on the game completely.

"I would love to be the Arsenal goalkeeping coach," Seaman stated.

"I know that offer may never come and sometimes it is a case of taking an opportunity when it is there.

"I worked with Bob Wilson for 15 years and that was great for me. I wouldn't want to walk away with all the experience I have gained without passing it on to anybody else.

"But first of all I want to make sure my shoulder is right and then we will see what sorts of offers come in."