Arsene Wenger Awaits 'Exceptional' Transfer Target, Top News from Gunners Boss

Arsene Wenger has admitted that he is open to signing further reinforcements for his Arsenal squad before the transfer deadline arrives on February 2.

The French boss spoke prior to his side's Premier League clash with Aston Villa, a match that could see the debut of recent acquisition Gabriel Paulista. Wenger suggested that if the right talent becomes available, he may be willing to splash further funds, per Kevin Palmer of the Sunday World:

Wenger also stated that midfielder Francis Coquelin—who has performed well for the senior team in Mikel Arteta's absence—is close to signing a new contract:

"

Boss on new contracts: "There is nothing to announce on @m8arteta. Coquelin is 99 per cent there." #AFCvAVFC pic.twitter.com/vU9koAeJXP

— Arsenal FC (@Arsenal) January 30, 2015"

Arsenal fans will be expecting a comfortable win against Paul Lambert's side on Sunday. Villa have scored just four goals in 11 away matches this season, per WhoScored.com, picking up 11 of 33 available points on the road.

Jon Super/Associated Press

Wenger confirmed Arsenal are likely to be without their main source of creativity, Alexis Sanchez, but he noted that Paulista is destined to make an appearance:

The defender is going to need all the help he can get when making his debut, per Palmer:

Danny Welbeck's recent thigh injury, as reported by David Woods of the Daily Star, ensures he will miss Villa's visit. Wenger revealed that the Englishman should be available for the north London derby, however:

Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could also return from his groin strain for the trip to Tottenham Hotspur:

Consistent injury problems may force Wenger into the market with a little more urgency. He's currently linked with a £15 million move for Southampton's Morgan Schneiderlin, reported by Jamie Sanderson of Metro, but it's unlikely Ronald Koeman will let his midfield behemoth leave before the end of the season.

B/R UK's James McNicholas recently outlined a handful of candidates who could improve the side's chances of success:

Arsenal can realistically aim for third this season, but winter signings could ease the pressure on Wenger in the summer. His squad has often appeared a couple of stars short of being legitimate title contenders, so it's refreshing to see him address obvious squad needs in January.

A powerful defensive midfielder should still be craved, and according to Wenger's comments, one could be possible by the time the winter market closes.