Arsenal transfer round-up: Gunners set sights on Hector Moreno

Arsenal, 7/1 to with Coral to retain the FA Cup, look set to add to the signing of Polish midfielder of Krystian Bielik this winter window, with boss Arsene Wenger admitting his scouts are in the hunt for rearguard reinforcements.

Speaking ahead of his side’s clash with Manchester City, Wenger stated: “Of course we are out in the market and are working hard every day. All of our scouts and all of our people are working very hard to find a defender.”

The North Londoners’ backline wobbles and rearguard injury woes have certainly been no secret this season, and Wenger has recently received another blow after right back Mathieu Debuchy was sidelined yet again.

Instead of patching up his defence with youngsters or players out of position, it seems the Frenchman has learnt his lesson and will take the opportunity to recruit.

West Ham United centre half Winston Reid, who has impressed at Upton Park this term, is widely acknowledged to be high on Wenger’s hitlist, as the New Zealand international has just under six months left on his current contract.

However, the Gunners are also said to be tracking Mexico and Espanyol centre back Hector Moreno. The 27-year-old La Liga defender is rumoured to have impressed Wenger with his no-nonsense style and tenacious tackling, attributes Arsenal could certainly do with adding to their squad.

The 56-capped Aztecs talent was a lynchpin for Catalan outfit Espanyol last campaign, making 32 league appearances, but could be available for a reported fee of around £6m, with Moreno’s agent Eduardo Hernandez stating: “Moreno wants to leave and we’re looking at other clubs.”

Arsenal are also apparently interested in Almeria winger Edgar Mendez, but may have to duel with Premier League peers Everton for his services.

The Spanish speedster, 23, is a former Real Madrid Castilla product and has impressed on his debut campaign in the top flight, scoring three times and contributing one assist for relegation-threatened Almeria.