Arsene Wenger tried to sign West Brom record-breaker Gareth Barry
Arsene Wenger has admitted he tried to sign record-breaking Baggies midfielder Gareth Barry earlier on in his career.
The 36-year-old is due to break Ryan Giggs's record for the most appearances made in the Premier League at the Emirates Stadium on Monday when he lines up for his 633rd game in the competition.
He started his career at Aston Villa before joining Manchester City, where he won the league title.
After that he spent several years at Everton before arriving at Albion for £1m in the summer.
And Wenger has confirmed he was interested in the England international several years ago but was priced out of the deal when City offered Villa £12m.
“We were interested in him when he moved from Villa to City but at the time City was the big investor,” said the Arsenal boss. “It will be strange to see him in a different shirt. I’m sure he will be a great influence to West Brom.”
Barry has been impressive since his arrival at The Hawthorns, and is due to break Giggs's record on Monday night.
He sat out last night's third round clash in the Carabao Cup with Manchester City, when the Baggies fought back in a one-sided game to give their well-moneyed visitors a contest.
And Wenger is expecting a similarly tough night at the Emirates.
“West Brom have the culture of the Premier League, a manager who knows how the league works," said the Arsenal boss.
“They are very strong on set pieces, solid defensively – it’s tough to score against them.”
