Wenger to offer Abou Diaby a new Arsenal deal

Abou Diaby will be offered a new contract at Arsenal if he returns to fitness, Arsene Wenger has confirmed.

The injury-hit midfielder has made just two appearances in as many seasons and he has seven months to run on his current deal.

It was expected Arsenal would not renew the 28-year-old's contract, but speaking ahead of his side's trip to Stoke, Wenger revealed the France star does have a future at the Emirates Stadium.

'Diaby is on the fringe of coming back into full training but he is not there yet - he has a calf problem,' said Wenger.

'His injuries are never severe but little grade one tears. He is not available yet. 'If Diaby is fully fit, he will have a new deal at Arsenal.'

Wenger faces a defensive crisis ahead of his side's clash against Stoke with Nacho Monreal ruled out, while Laurent Koscielny and Kieran Gibbs face late fitness tests.


Credit: Phil Duncan/SportsMail