Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is chasing Roma star Daniele de Rossi. The Independent says Wenger's preferred midfield target this summer is the Roma and Italy midfielder De Rossi, and despite the Italian club's reluctance to sell Arsenal have not given up hope that Roma's perilous financial position could force a sale.

De Rossi is the combative midfielder that Arsenal have lacked since the departure of Mathieu Flamini, albeit a much more sought-after individual than the French player. Wenger has considered him before but regards the valuation placed on him by Roma as unrealistic. But now Roma may be forced to sell with the club's finances in dire straits.