Arsene Wenger wants Everton's Mikel Arteta if Barcelona prise Cesc Fabregas from Arsenal

By Sportsmail Reporter
Updated: 19:55 EST, 11 May 2010


Arsenal are keen on Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta as they draw up contingency plans for the possible departure of Cesc Fabregas.

Manager Arsene Wenger is confident of keeping his captain but is wary that Barcelona will propose an offer difficult to refuse for Fabregas during the their forthcoming presidential elections.

Wenger is interested in Real Zaragoza's young midfielder Ander Herrera but would also want a player of Premier League experience that could fit into their style and Arteta suits.

Premier League experience: Arteta has been a top performer in the top flight since moving to Goodison Park from Real Sociedad in 2005

Premier League experience: Arteta has been a top performer in the top flight since moving to Goodison Park from Real Sociedad in 2005

Talks: Pienaar

Talks: Pienaar

The Everton midfield maestro has only returned from knee ligament damage this year but has come back stronger and produced a string of match-winning displays which have prompted good reports from Arsenal scouts.

The problem for Arsenal is Everton would not be willing sellers.

Arteta, 28, is a big crowd favourite and, though contracted to 2012, moves are afoot to negotiate new terms.

Everton want to keep their squad together and have agreed a new four year deal with Tim Cahill.

Meanwhile, talks are ongoing with midfielder Steven Pienaar who is a target for Liverpool, Tottenham and Manchester United.

Comments (10)

Share what you think

The comments below have been moderated in advance.

The views expressed in the contents above are those of our users and do not necessarily reflect the views of MailOnline.

We are no longer accepting comments on this article.

Who is this week's top commenter? Find out now