Arsenal are pushing to sign Barcelona striker David Villa for a knockdown fee. Villa is a top target for Gunners boss Arsene Wenger, who will sign the want-away World Cup winner if Barca keep their asking price realistic.

And the Daily Mail says Arsenal are ready to play their trump card in negotiations.

Arsenal plan using the fact they are still owed money from the transfers of Alex Song and Cesc Fabregas to help finance a possible deal.