Arsenal linked with swoop for trio of free talents

Arsenal, 12/1 to win the Premier League, are apparently interested in free agents Lassana Diarra, Diego Lugano and Joseph Yobo.

Arsene Wenger is reportedly ready to delve into the bargain basement once more and snap up the club-less trio in an attempt to reinforce his rearguard options.

The Gunners recently slumped to a dismal 2-0 Champions League defeat to German giants Borussia Dortmund, and have notched up just one Premier League victory so far this term.

In fairness to Arsenal, their defence has been severely depleted, with Calum Chambers suffering from tonsillitis and both Nacho Monreal and Mathieu Debuchy sidelined for the foreseeable. This meant the Gunners were forced to field inexperienced youngster Hector Bellerin at the Westfalenstadion.

It appears Wenger is not willing to gamble his side’s trophy hopes by biding his time until the January transfer window, though, and could offer sanctuary to the trio of unwanted former Premier League stars.

Former Arsenal, Chelsea and Real Madrid midfielder Diarra could be tempted to return to his old stomping grounds, after departing the Emirates in 2008 having made just 7 league appearances. The Frenchman is still only 29, and his substantial top flight experience could make him a valuable asset.

Diarra has already tasted significant silverware success, winning the FA Cup with Portsmouth in 2008 before lifting La Liga with Spanish giants Real Madrid.

The versatile midfielder, who can also operate as a right back, looked set to reunite with old boss Harry Redknapp this summer, but the deal fell through following reports that former club Lokomotiv Moscow blocked the move.

In addition to former charge Diarra, Wenger is also rumoured to be keen on luring defensive duo Lugano and Yobo to north London, as back up for first picks Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker.

Lugano will be familiar to Premier League fans after his brief but disappointing spell with West Bromich Albion, and as captain of England’s foes Uruguay at the World Cup. Experienced Yobo, meanwhile, previously plied his trade for both Everton and Norwich City.