Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger rules out signing David Beckham and David Villa

Arsene Wenger has ruled out signing David Beckham – and has also admitted there is no chance of David Villa moving to the Emirates this month.

Reports in the morning papers revealed that former England captain Beckham is set to begin training with the Gunners, leading to speculation he could make a Premier League return with the club.

Beckham is a free agent after leaving LA Galaxy at the end of the MLS season in the autumn, so could sign even after the transfer window closes on Thursday night.

But Wenger says there is no chance of the 37-year-old joining the north London club, and insists the midfield star is simply keen to stay in shape.

Wenger said: "He called me. He has asked to come here and to work on his fitness. He has not done anything for a long, long time.

"It's purely for fitness. There's no speculation about signing or anything."

The Gunners boss also admitted Spanish international Villa will not be moving to the Premier League this month.

Wenger added: “Barcelona don’t want to sell, they’ve made that clear.”