Sometimes it’s as if Arsene Wenger becomes a caricature of himself when he answers questions from the media.

The boss’ latest ‘Wenger-ism’ came when questioned over his apparent interest in signing Manchester City’s Raheem Sterling, who Arsenal were linked with over the summer.

“I don’t want to open any speculations on that before a game like that,” said the Frenchman.

“I believe that the transfer window is closed at the moment so that is not really a subject that is very important.”

Surely if there was no interest, Wenger could have simply just said ‘no’, like he did when asked about signing Riyad Mahrez?

The Gunners were said to be targeting Sterling as a replacement for Alexis Sanchez. However, City weren’t willing to allow the 22-year-old to leave, especially not to a rival.

Pep Guardiola confirmed afterwards that Arsenal had asked about signing the winger but there was zero chance of the England international moving to north London, as part of another deal or otherwise.

Pep’s confirmation that Arsenal at least inquired about Sterling suggests that there is interest there. Or at least there was.

The Gunners need to find a replacement for Alexis soon. The Chilean has months left on his contract and looks set to leave on a free at the end of the season, if not in January. Therefore, the club need a world class forward to slot in and somehow I don’t think Sterling is the man for the job since City seem set on keeping him.

Sterling’s scored 10 goals in 14 appearances so far this season.