Arsenal to bid for Otamendi

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has identified Nicolas Otamendi of Argentinean giants Velez Sarsfield as a potential replacement for William Gallas should the French centre back quit the Gunners on a free transfer this summer.

Otamendi is being hyped as one of the best young centre backs in South America, and he is already part of the 23 man Argentina squad that will be competing in South Africa.

Valued at approximately 10 million GBP by his club, Otamendi does have a hefty price tag.

Not only this, but there are many suitors for the centre back; with Juventus and AC Milan also interested in the talented defender.

Wenger is keen to wrap up a deal for a centre back this month.