The continuing confusion over the transfer system is making Arsene Wenger stall on signing a new contract - according to Arsenal chairman Peter Hill-Wood.

In quotes widely reported on all the back pages, he spoke of his mounting concern at the uncertainty - that's nothing new.

But here's the scary bit. 'Arsenal can't understand why so many clubs are buying big before this has been sorted out - fortunately, Arsene Wenger thinks like us,' said PHW. 'He's worried, but he's also honourable. He has told us he will not sign a new contract because he can't commit himself to a game that could be unmanageable.'

The Japanese FA is only a phone call away.