Arsenal Transfer Scenarios: 10 South American Stars the Gunners Should Work Out

Arsenal's need for quality recruits in January is obvious. While they don't need to bring in half a squad, the Gunners do require an infusion of quality. Several South American stars could answer that need.

These include a current Real Madrid star who has fallen out of favour. There is also a pair of playmakers Arsenal have scouted in the past.

The list is dominated by Brazilians, but this is not unreasonable, given Arsene Wenger's history of recruitment from Brazil. Most of these are transfer scenarios suggested by this author and are not players necessarily currently linked with Arsenal.

Attempts have been made to keep the list as realistic as possible. So there is no place for high-priced Colombian sensation Radamel Faclao.

Here are the top South American stars Arsenal should consider working out.

10. Hernanes, Lazio

Arsenal have been linked with Lazio's Hernanes more than once in the past year. There is plenty to support a move for the Rome-based schemer.

Hernanes possesses all of the flair and skill most associate with Brazilian central midfielders. He is a graceful, cultured attacking force who poses a credible scoring threat.

Football Italia recently linked Hernanes with a possible switch to Inter Milan and suggests he won't sign a new deal.

9. Ganso, Sao Paulo

Ganso would be a dream fit for Arsenal. He perfectly suits Arsene Wenger's style of play. He is a natural link player between midfield and attack.

A prolific creative outlet, Ganso is a true No. 10 who provides plenty of chances for the forward line. He has the touch and guile to expose the gaps in any defense.

The ex-Santos starlet only joined Sao Paulo in September in a complex deal. However, that shouldn't deter the Gunners from at least inquiring about his availability.

8. Ricardo Alvarez, Inter Milan

Remember Arsenal's protracted pursuit of Ricardo Alvarez last summer? The supposed deal collapsed and Alvarez was snatched by Inter Milan.

However, the Argentine attacking midfield has floundered in Serie A. That has reignited rumours that the Gunners could again try a swoop for Alvarez.

A cerebral passer and quick and tricky midfielder, Alvarez has the versatility Wenger loves. The ex-Velez Sarsfield star could give Arsenal the more technically gifted player they need in wide positions.

7. Jadson, Sao Paulo

Another South American who almost joined Arsenal was the supremely gifted Jadson. The Gunners were close to sealing a deal for the diminutive playmaker in the summer of 2011.

The transfer didn't materialise and Jadson eventually returned to Brazil to sign for Sao Paulo. Arsenal had missed out on an outstanding player.

Jadson is an intelligent midfield schemer with the vision and craft to improve the quality of Arsenal's game. He can be the creative fulcrum for any team.

At 29, he would bring a veteran presence to Arsenal and fit the squad's new-look blend of youth and experience. Arsenal could use additional technical quality in attack.

Jadson would make an excellent acquisition.

6. Luis Gustavo, Bayern Munich

Luis Gustavo fits the mold of a typical South American signing from Wenger. The Gunners boss has often favored efficient Brazilians to anchor his midfield.

He had the same with Gilberto Silva and Edu. Gustavo offers similar qualities and Arsenal have recently been linked with the Bayern Munich man.

He combines physical tenacity and high work rate with assured technique and stylish passing. Gustavo is currently injured and his future at Bayern is questionable since the arrival of Javi Martinez.

If there is a chance of snaring Gustavo, the Gunners have to take it. They need his calmness and defensive instincts to give more freedom to their attack.

5. Federico Fazio, Sevilla

Towering Sevilla stalwart Federico Fazio would be a superb addition for the Gunners. He is capable of playing in central defense or operating as a defensive midfielder.

Fazio would give Arsenal the physical presence they currently lack. He is an aggressive tackler and naturally commanding in the air.

The 25-year-old Argentinian is also a technically competent ball-player. He reads the game well and his imposing strength would be invaluable.

Arsenal were interested in Fazio back in 2009, but were spurned. Given the shaky state of Spanish football, the Gunners should explore the possibility of a new deal in 2013.

4. James Rodriguez, FC Porto

James Rodriguez is one of the most exciting young talents in world football. The 21-year-old Colombian star has been exceptional for FC Porto this season.

A former winger, Rodriguez has varied his game during this campaign. He has transitioned to a wide forward role, showcasing more fluid movement and creativity from central areas.

He is fleet-footed, skillful and inventive. Rodriguez is a genuine match-winner who would boost Arsenal's 4-2-3-1 formation.

However, landing Rodriguez would take a major investment. Manchester United have been linked with the quick-witted attacker, but a fee of £36 million has been mooted.

Yet if Arsenal wanted to make one big splash in the transfer market, Rodriguez would certainly be worth it.

3. Nene, Paris Saint-Germain

Paris Saint-Germain misfit Nene would be a smart January addition for the Gunners. The Brazil veteran is a loping, tricky attacker who is at his best in wide forward areas.

A natural winger with excellent technique, Nene would be a useful fit in the current Arsenal formation. The 31-year-old is free to leave the French club at the turn of the year.

Fanatix.com recently suggested Arsene Wenger could be keen on a swoop.

2. Lucas Biglia, Anderlecht

Arsenal tracked Anderlecht skipper Lucas Biglia in the summer and could revisit a move this winter. Sky Sports recently reported that Biglia could leave the Belgian club in January.

He could still be a useful addition for the Gunners. Biglia is a technically assured midfield anchor. He is efficient and intelligent in possession.

The 26-year-old is a disciplined, smart midfielder, who would suit Arsenal's brand of quick and neat passing.

1. Kaka, Real Madrid

There is still no good reason not to at least consider a move for aging forward Kaka. The savvy Brazilian attacker has fallen out of favour at Real Madrid and could be dumped during the winter.

If so, Arsenal should take a long look at bringing the wily playmaker to North London. Kaka is still a technically gifted player, with the touch, control and agility to escape markers.

He also possesses the natural creative-acumen to outwit any defense. As a supporting striker, Kaka would improve the movement and quality of Arsenal's forward line.

Arsene Wenger was linked with a bold loan move for the ex-AC Milan star last summer. He should revisit the idea once 2013 begins.