Arsene Wenger has confirmed that Kolo Toure could leave Arsenal as talks continue over a possible move by the Ivory Coast defender to Manchester City. Toure played for Arsenal last night in a pre-season friendly in Hungary but could move to City in a €17 million transfer later this week.

Wenger said the next 24 hours will be decisive.

He told Arsenal TV: “We will see what’s happening in the next 24 hours, nothing is decided yet.

“We have seven centre-backs and I am in the position where I have to play some in midfield but of course Kolo is a very good player and we will see what will happen in the next 24 hours.”

If Toure does sign it would take City boss Mark Hughes’ spending close over the €100 million mark — and he is thought to also be keen on Everton defender Joleon Lescott.

Arsenal by contrast have made just one signing, central defender Thomas Vermaelen from Ajax, and have also sold Emmanuel Adebayor to City for €29 million.

Wenger hinted that he will make more signings before the transfer window closes.

He added: “I am more focused on getting everybody fit for the start of the season but we are looking at opportunities as well, there are still some pre-season games to see what we really need.

“When the time comes we will do something.”