Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger aims to make two signings this month.
A new centre back and a defensive midfielder are the positions Wenger wants to strengthen.
The Daily Mail says West Ham's Winston Reid is a main target, along with Ipswich youngster Tyrone Mings.
With Jack Wilshere (ankle) and Mikel Arteta (calf) sidelined, Wenger is eager to bolster his midfield, though first-choice Morgan Schneiderlin of Southampton won't be available until the summer.
Arsenal have been offered Atletico Madrid's Mario Suarez on loan until the end of the season.