Carini, who has been linked with a possible move to Manchester United instead, was photographed wearing an Arsenal shirt last month when the deal looked all set to go through.

However, Wenger revealed last Thursday that a problem had arisen over Carini's personal terms and the Arsenal boss has since been unable to resurrect the deal.

"It's over. We will look for somebody else and I will make a decision before the West Ham game next week," Wenger said.

"We have a few players in mind but we don't want to speak about the names as it's too early."

There is now speculation that Manchester United, who are also seeking a third goalkeeper before the transfer window closes on 31 August, could turn to the 22-year-old Uruguay international.

Wenger, who joked earlier this weekend that United would be able to afford the goalkeeper's wages, conceded: "Maybe you could see him somewhere else in the Premier League."

The Arsenal manager, who could now turn his sights to Brazil's Marcos or Tottenham's Neil Sullivan, is determined to ensure that his team start the European campaign with extra back-up for David Seaman.

"Stuart Taylor is a great prospect and we also have Graham Stack, but we need a third keeper with experience," he said.

Wenger sold Richard Wright to Everton during the summer.