Arsenal

THE ESSENTIAL

Carlos Vela has confirmed he is hoping to stay at Real Sociedad beyond this season rather than return to Arsenal at the end of his loan spell.

Robin van Persie cannot wait to reform his Arsenal strike partnership with Thierry Henry, who has looked "unbelievable" in training.

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has said that Sunderland were wrong to sack Steve Bruce. The Black Cats parted company with Bruce following a poor start to the season and Wenger said:"I think it is a mistake because the one to question at Sunderland is certainly not Steve Bruce."

Nicklas Bendtner joined Sunderland from Arsenal because of Steve Bruce, the striker has revealed. The Dane played under Bruce in the 2006-07 season while on loan at Birmingham.

Arsenal will be without defender Thomas Vermaelen for around a month after the 25-year-old underwent a minor procedure for an injury suffered in their game against Udinese.

Arsenal will be without midfielder Jack Wilshere for up to three months because of his troublesome ankle injury.

28-year-old Brazilian left-back Andre Santos is due to sign for Arsenal. The Fenerbache player is set to check-in at the Emirates in a £6.2m deal.

Israeli midfielder Yossi Benayoun is likely to leave Chelsea, with Arsenal and Liverpool fighting over his signature.

Bolton have rejected a bid from Arsenal for their defender Gary Cahill. Owen Coyle described the offer as "derisory" but talks are likely to continue.

Uefa have given Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger a two-match ban, and a 10,000 euros fine, after finding the Frenchman guilty of improper conduct following him communicating with the bench in the match against Udinese.