Chris Smalling's impressive progress at Fulham has caught the eye of Arsene Wenger. Speculations are making the headlines and it's believed Wenger is ready to splash out for signing this big, talented defender.

The 20-year-old Smalling is already part of England's under-21 squad. Wenger might also look into the prospect of improving the number of home-grown players in his side by signing Smalling.

Wenger recently broke his unwritten rules of management by re-signing Sol Campbell. Campbell, 35, is well past his prime and Wenger is desperate to find a long-term replacement for Gallas.

Smalling is gigantic, almost 6'5", and would be a great addition to the small Arsenal team.

Smalling already played in the Europa League for Fulham, but under the rules, he can still play in the Champions League for a different team.

Wenger was keen to sign Fulham's Brade Hangeland in the past, but that deal never happened. So, it is little surprise Wenger is still lurking around Craven Cottage to snatch a valuable possession.

If rumours are to be believed then Wenger is set to offer £7 million for Smalling, but Roy Hodgson might well try to resist this offer.

How long can he resist?