West Ham United are believed to have opened talks with Arsenal over a possible deal to sign midfielder and captain Mikel Arteta, according to reports in Spain.
The Hammers are said to be in the market for more quality this month, and are hoping that Arsenal would be willing to allow Arteta to move on in search of more regular game time following a series of niggling injuries.
The 33-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season anyway, and Arsenal have reportedly already told him that they will not be offering him a new deal, meaning that they may be open to moving him on to free up more space in the squad.
However, with the current injury crisis gripping the Gunners squad may mean that Arsene Wenger will be reluctant to let him go early.
The Hammers were initially looking to get him on board for free this summer, but would be open to signing him now if they can land him for a nominal fee.
SEE MORE:
Lazio expose Manchester United desperation; Red Devils bid €50m for South American attacker revealed
Italian heavyweights confirm January plans for Manchester United transfer raid
Sizzling photos of Manchester United WAG of ex-Barcelona star; model poses topless on cover of Spanish mag