Wenger's transfer formula

Arsene Wenger has revealed that he has a set transfer policy formula that helps he make choices on player's he signs. Wenger insists one must watch the player in the flesh rather than DVD's and admitted quick decisions are part and parcel of the football transfer world.

“You try to get as many guarantees as you can but when you see a player you can know his character,” remarked the 58-year-old.

“There is no better study than to watch somebody play. When he goes on the football pitch he becomes who he really is.

“In normal life you can hide. On the football pitch you show who you really are. That is why you should watch a player well so you can see behind his character because he delivers that with his performance.

“We need to make quick decisions because we are competing with the other clubs. Some you have to say ‘yes’ or ‘no’ without the time to get all the guarantees.

“You can go home at midnight and if you don’t make a decision by 5am then the guy has gone somewhere else. He’ll have two planes booked. One goes to, say, Paris St-Germain and one comes to London.”