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Gunners admit defender defeat
Arsenal, 11:57, January 29, 2010 ,
Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has admitted defeat in the race to sign Chris Smalling after he opted for Manchester United.
Wenger was keen to sign the Fulham youngster before the transfer window closed and the Frenchman was close to wrapping up a deal before United nipped in at the death to take him.
The Gunners boss is disappointed to have missed out but hopes the player goes on to have a successful career.
"Manchester United got Smalling in the end. I am sorry because we were very close to getting him and we were on the case very early," said the Gunners boss.
"I wish the player well. At the end of the day it is important he has a good career. In both clubs he has a good chance to make a great career. The most important thing is he does that."
Meanwhile, Wenger is not ruling out the possibility of new players arriving before the window shuts but does not sound too optimistic.
"It is not impossible but at the moment it is unlikely," he added.