Squillaci's ban won't persuade Arsene to sign

Sebastian Squillaci's suspension will NOT tempt Arsène Wenger to step up his search for a centre back on transfer deadline day.

The French defender was sent off for a professional foul in the FA Cup win over Huddersfield Town and will sit out Tuesday's Premier League clash with Everton at Emirates Stadium.

Wenger has been on the lookout for reinforcements since Squillaci joined Thomas Vermaelen on the injury list earlier this month but the 30-year-old's return to fitness seems to have eased his manager's defensive concerns.

In the wake of Squillaci's red card on Sunday, Wenger was asked if he was now likely to sign anyone before the deadline passes at 11pm (UK time) on Monday.

"No," replied the manager.  "I leave these headlines to all the other clubs, but at the moment no.

"I cannot tell you definitely [I will not sign anyone] because someone might knock at my door in the morning and says 'I would like to play for you' and he is a good player, because I would sign him."