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Almunia hints at Gunners exit

Image: Almunia: Frustrated

Manuel Almunia has admitted he could be forced to leave Arsenal if Arsene Wenger brings in a new goalkeeper.

Keeper upset with transfer speculation

Manuel Almunia has admitted he could be forced to leave Arsenal if Arsene Wenger brings in a new goalkeeper. Wenger has been linked with a host of goalkeepers this summer as he looks to bolster his squad, with Fulham ace Mark Schwarzer believed to be the Frenchman's top target. Almunia started Arsenal's draw with Liverpool in their first game of the new Premier League season, but he was criticised for not keeping out David Ngog's opener. The Spaniard admits he has been frustrated by the constant speculation about a new goalkeeper arriving at Emirates Stadium, saying it has affected his confidence. "To be honest, it is so difficult to concentrate because Arsenal is a big club and speculation is always in the news and everywhere," Almunia told the London Evening Standard. "The only thing I can do is keep working because I have a contract here and I have to do what the manager wants from me. "I have not spoken to him. If somebody comes in, I will have to talk about my future at Arsenal. That is it. I cannot talk now, because the talking would be for nothing. I have to work and if one day I am not good for Arsenal, I will talk. That is no problem. I am very happy here. "The only news I have is from third parties - people at the training ground. When I go out and when I come back from training, I switch off."

Difficult

Almunia has been mentioned as a possible target for Aston Villa, but the 33-year-old admits he would find it difficult to play for another English club if he did leave Arsenal. "I don't see anything else outside of Arsenal. It will be very difficult to play for another team in England if it wasn't Arsenal. Spain would also be difficult," added Almunia. "But I am 33 years old and only have a few more years left in football. I would like to enjoy them. I am a keeper who enjoys playing."

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