Arsenal are making a shock move for Watford captain Adrian Mariappa.

The Sun says despite initially insisting he would not make any transfer window signings, Arsenal's boss is now ready to reinforce his inconsistent defence.

Newcastle have been haggling over a price for 25-year-old Mariappa, who can play either at right-back or centre-back.

Toon chief Alan Pardew has offered £1.5million so far.

While Watford are demanding £4million, they will accept just over £2m.

Wenger had Mariappa watched in Watford's home FA Cup defeat by Tottenham last Friday.