Arsene Wenger is interested in bringing Argentine youngster Mauro Zarate to Arsenal as he looks to improve the depth of his squad in an area in which the club were exposed last season.
- In pics: Premier League final day action | Arsenal homepage
- Premier League Transfer Talk
- Arsenal fans' Premier League season review
A long-term injury to Croatian striker Eduardo and persistent fitness problems experienced by Robin van Persie across a frustrating season for the talented Dutchman have convinced Wenger that additional numbers are needed to support Emmanuel Adebayor and the emerging Theo Walcott.
Zarate impressed in his short spell in the Premier League when he scored four goals in Birmingham City's failed bid to stay in the Premier League after joining on loan mid-way through the season.
A tricky, mobile forward, Zarate is able to play across the front line and the Under-21 international would fit with Wenger's policy of buying young players and developing them at the club.
Birmingham gave up their option on the player when their relegation was confirmed and Zarate is scheduled to return to his current owners, Al Saad Sports Club of Qatar, when their season restarts in the Autumn.
However, the former Velez Sarsfield player would much prefer to stay in Europe and the Premier League.
Al Saad paid £10 million for Zarate and have since valued him at twice that amount.
However, with finances in the oil rich Gulf State less of a pressing concern than in other leagues Arsenal should be able to avoid paying that inflated figure.
Birmingham City manager Alex McLeish said: "He will be a good asset to one of the big clubs. It's just a shame that our situation counted against us.
