Arsenal have “accelerated” their interest in Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum, according to reports.
The 31-year-old left Liverpool to join PSG on a free transfer last summer but is struggling to settle in at the Ligue 1 side.
He has played 24 times this term, netting three and assisting one for his new club.
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In October last year, it was reported that Wijnaldum “hasn’t got the support of the South American players” at PSG.
This is due to the fact the ex-Liverpool man competes with Argentine midfielder Leandro Paredes – who has the support of Lionel Messi and co – for a starting spot.
However, Wijnaldum could have a way out of PSG, with Arsenal and his former club Newcastle reportedly interested in signing him.
Spanish outlet Fichajes claim the Gunners have “accelerated” their interest in the Holland midfielder.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta admitted last week that he would be looking for midfield “options” in January as they are “very, very short” in that area, meaning a move for Wijnaldum could be on the cards.
Thomas Partey is on international duty at the Africa Cup of Nations and Ainsley Maitland-Niles has joined Roma on loan for the rest of the season.
This leaves youngsters Charlie Patino and Albert Sambi Lokonga, as well as experienced midfielder Granit Xhaka, as Arteta’s only first-team options in the centre of midfield.
Wijnaldum could join Arsenal on loan to help add depth to Arteta’s midfield. Ian Wright has urged the Spaniard to secure the signing of the ex-Liverpool star.
“I saw Wijnaldum’s name [linked with Arsenal],” Wright said on The Kelly and Wrighty Show. “That would be amazing. A loan signing from PSG.
“Someone like that in the midfield. Of that experience. He is a Premier League winner. Just to help with the youngsters and a Sambi Lokonga just to keep it going.
“Then, they can add to the squad and, all of a sudden, Arsenal can start challenging and challenging seriously.”