Arsenal are reportedly set to sign Stephen Appiah. The talented Ghana international midfielder is understood to be in advanced discussions with Gunners' boss Arsene Wenger, and will sign a two year deal at the Emirates.

It was reported that West Ham had also made an offer for the former Fenerbahce midfielder, but the Gunners have stolen a march on their London rivals.

Appiah is one of the most highly regarded midfielders in Africa, and Arsenal are believed to be ready to pay a whopping £35,000 a week to Appiah to bring him to the Emirates Stadium.

Since the departure of Mathieu Flamini and Gilberto Silva, Arsenal have yet to have made moves in the transfer market to replace either; apart from signing youngster Amaury Bischoff.

It is understood that Wenger has decided that bringing Appiah to Arsenal will add plenty of experience to his squad; and his signing on a free transfer would be outside of the transfer window.