Chamakh expects duo to depart

Arsenal’s Marouane Chamakh expects both Samir Nasri and Cesc Fabregas to depart the north London club before the transfer window shuts.

The Moroccan international has also claimed Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is currently scouring the market for players to make up for the duo’s departure but is not making progress.

“I think both players will quit the club,” the forward told L’Equipe.

“I don’t think it’s a matter of money for the Fabregas or Samir deals being held up, I think it is a case that the manager is looking for their successors and he hasn’t been able to find them.”

“I think before letting them go, he wants to find the players to replace them. That’s my opinion about the situation.”

“The problem is the season starts this weekend, and it’s even more difficult for us now.”

The former Bordeaux man questioned the situation the club currently find themselves with Fabregas and, in particular, Nasri.

“I think in the situation the club is in, they should only let one leave,” Chamakh said.

“Cesc – he’s wanted to leave for several seasons because he’s born in Barcelona.”

“But Samir is now in a situation where he has one year left on his contract, so if they don’t sell him this summer he will leave for free at the end of the season.”

“It is bizarre that they have not managed to sign an extension with him,” he added.

Reports continue to link Fabregas with a move back to his boyhood club Barcelona, while Manchester rivals United and City have been mooted as the most likely next destinations for Nasri.