Arsene Wenger like Demba Ba but rules out deal

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has admitted that he likes Demba Ba but has ruled out a move for the Newcastle United striker.

Ba has been impressive form on Tyneside this season, scoring 11 league goals to sit third in the scoring charts.

Wenger revealed that Ba is a player he rates highly but does not see the Senegalese forward moving to North London next month.

He told reporters: "I like Demba Ba, yes, but it is not the right place to speak about him because he plays against us tomorrow.

"If you ask me 'do we sign him', I say no."

The Gunners host Newcastle in tomorrow evening's late kickoff in the Premier League.