A potential transfer for the Arsenal skipper to Old Trafford is in doubt, Information Nigeria understands.
Arsenal are likely to block a transfer that sees Thomas Vermaelen leave the club for United, with the NorthLondon side wanting a player and cash in return.
After losing Bacary Sagna to rivals City, Wenger is cautious of losing his captain as they are short of a backup central defender.
Sagna is a versatile defender that can play at rightback and central defense, but failure to agree on a new deal resulted in the French international seeking greener pastures elsewhere.
Vermaelen has falling short of the pecking order in Arsenal, with Merteshacker and Koscielny slotting proficiently in the heart of the Gunners defense.
It’s still puzzling the player Arsene Wenger would be interested in for a trade, with Smailling a likely pick.
Tom Cleverly is also another player the French manager has been monitoring.