The 31-year old France
international signed a two-year deal at the Emirates Stadium for an
undisclosed fee, surprising the club’s fans who had expected their
manager to strengthen in midfield.
And while Liverpool
manager Rafa Benitez has reportedly ended his interest in Barry
after the long and tiresome negotiations this summer, Wenger has
hinted that he may still make a £16 million move for the player
despite him being cup-tied in Europe.
“I believe once somebody
cannot play for you in Europe, it devalues the player for the
season - but it is not necessarily stopping you from buying a
player,” Wenger said.
"I can surprise you
sometimes, as I got one in whom you did not expect, and there still
might be one more player coming in.
"There is interest always.
But I do not want to give you any names.”
On the signing of
Silvestre, Wenger has cited the player’s experience as a key reason
for his interest in the former Red Devils utility man.
"He can play centre-back,
he can play left-back and that is an area where we were a bit
inexperienced," Wenger added.
"He has a great team attitude and he can help us in the dressing
room as well with his maturity."