Arsenal looking into loan move for James Rodriguez?

Arsenal have reportedly been linked with a shock move for James Rodriguez with manager Mikel Arteta said to be keen on bolstering the attacking department before next week's transfer deadline.

The Gunners are close to making their first signing of the winter transfer window with centre-back Pablo Mari expected to join them from Flamengo on a permanent deal worth £8m.

Arteta has already hinted that the club are looking to bolster other areas of the playing field and The Mirror reports that Rodriguez is a player under consideration ahead of the transfer deadline on Thursday.

Los Blancos are currently said to value the Colombian at £34m but reports claim that he could be permitted to join a new club on loan for the season with a view to a permanent move next summer.

Aside from the Gunners, Everton are also understood to be monitoring the player's proceedings with manager Carlo Ancelotti said to be an admirer of the South American after previously signing him for Bayern Munich on loan.