The Arsenal fans in the Transfer Tavern were surprised when they heard that, according to the Times, Per Mertesacker could be set to leave the club on loan…

The Times are reporting that Wenger is willing to let Mertesacker leave on loan this month in a bid to earn a new contract, despite the fact that the Gunners themselves are not blessed with much defensive depth.

It is a disappointing fall from grace for the Arsenal captain, who has struggled to feature since returning from injury – but could the German not be the only player to leave the club this month?

There are a number of players within the Gunners’ first team squad that look unlikely to feature much this season, and with Arsene Wenger likely to consider bringing in a few players this month – he will need to make room in his squad.

With that said, these 2 players could follow Mertesacker out of Arsenal this month…

 Mathieu Debuchy

Mathieu Debuchy recently had a widely publicised fallout with Arsene Wenger, and since then, his Arsenal career has been in the balance.

At this point, a departure looks inevitable, though it remains to be seen whether that will come this month or in the summer.

A talented full-back, Debuchy has really struggled to break past Hector Bellerin over the last year or 2, and with that situation unlikely to change going forward – a departure makes sense.

 Carl Jenkinson

Carl Jenkinson is unlikely to get much of a chance this season, and a loan move would make a fair bit of sense for the young Gunner.

He has looked good when given a chance, but Hector Bellerin is just too good – and there is no point having him sit on the bench. Quick, powerful and a decent all rounder – he would do well for a mid-table side.

The Englishman is a hard worker, and so will impress on loan. Perhaps if he does well, Wenger could consider a more senior role next season.