Mathieu Debuchy says he “needs to leave Arsenal” this month

Arsenal defender Mathieu Debuchy has confirmed that he will leave Emirates Stadium this month.

The Frenchman, who signed from Newcastle for a fee in the region of £12m almost 18 months ago, has found playing time hard to come by since the emergence of Hector Bellerin at right-back.

Several clubs have made enquiries for the defender including Aston Villa, West Brom and Bayer Leverkusen, all of whom are expected to meet Arsenal’s £7m asking price.

Debuchy told L’Equipe that the interest from Remi Garde’s side is concrete and he will be leaving north London this January whatever happens.

“It’s true, they are among the teams interested in me”, said Debuchy.

“I am currently studying everything but it’s not a possibility I have excluded.

“Whatever happens, even if it is to return this summer and then start again, I have to go this winter. I cannot stay at Arsenal.”