Defensive headache for Wenger

Arsene Wenger could be facing transfer heartache when it comes to his number one priority for a new defender before the transfer window closes.

The Arsenal boss has made reinforcing his defence a priority this summer as he looks to build a team capable of mounting a serious Premier League title challenge, and has so far brought in Laurent Koscielny from Lorient.

More defensive reinforcements were expected to arrive at the Emirates as Sol Campbell, William Gallas and Mikael Silvestre have all left the club this summer. The Premier League 2010/11 betting suggest Arsenal can challenge this season, but they will need to strengthen their backline.

His next target was reported to be experienced German international Per Mertesacker, who currently plays in his homeland for Werder Bremen.

The centre-half was thought to be Wenger's first choice to partner Thomas Vermaelen in the centre of defence for next season, despite the arrival of Koscielny, but the French manager may have to turn his attentions elsewhere.

Klaus Allofs, the general manager of Werder Bremen, has told the Bild newspaper the club have no intention of selling Mertesacker.

"I have already said on a couple of occasions that Per will be staying on at our club and will go on playing for Werder Bremen," he said.

"Nothing has changed with regard to this and neither Per nor his agent have come to us saying that they have received an offer."

With the Gunners' chances of landing Mertesacker seemingly over and only a fortnight to go until the Premier League season kicks-off then could Wenger turn his attentions to Emir Spahic in order to help the side justify their Champions League odds.

The Bosnian defender currently plays for Montpellier and the 29-year-old has claimed that Arsenal have been in touch with his current side and he hopes any transfer can be "completed soon".