Arsenal Transfer News and Rumours Tracker: Week of September 22

After a convincing win against Aston Villa, the need for new recruits at Arsenal feels slightly less pressing. Nevertheless, the rumours continue.

The defeat against Borussia Dortmund exposed Arsenal's weaknesses at the back and in holding midfield, and many supporters are hoping those areas can be addressed in the forthcoming January transfer window.

Check back over the coming week for the latest in Gunners transfer news.

-Last updated: Friday, September 26- 

Arsenal Poised to Pounce for Marco Reus

Denis Doyle/Getty Images

Friday, September 26

Anthony Chapman of The Express believes Arsenal could be set to enter the bidding war for German international forward Marco Reus:

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Marco Reus is refusing to enter into contract negotiations with Borussia Dortmund as Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal prepare bids for the end of the season.

The Germany international is wanted by a number of top European clubs including Bayern Munich, Real Madrid and Atletico Madrid, but is believed to favour a Premier League switch should he quit the Bundesliga.

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If Reus does indeed have his heart set on playing in the Premier League, Arsenal would surely be towards the front of the queue for his services. His speed and skill would make him an instant hit in North London.

Arsenal Target Ron Vlaar to End Their Defensive Problems

Andre Penner/Associated Press

Wednesday, September 24

Arsenal could turn to experienced Dutchman Ron Vlaar to end their defensive crisis.

According to Anthony Chapman of The Express, Arsene Wenger has identified the Aston Villa centre-half as the man to offer depth and experience to the Gunners' depleted backline.

However, it's not a clear path to signing Vlaar: Wenger is reported to face competition from Manchester United and Louis van Gaal.

Arsenal Set for Chris Smalling Swoop

Ian Walton/Getty Images

Monday, September 22

Arsenal are still very short of cover at centre-half. At Aston Villa, they played without a recognised defender on the bench.

According to Rob Draper of the Mail on Sunday, Arsenal have identified Manchester United's Chris Smalling as the man to alleviate that problem:

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Arsenal's defensive injury crisis means they are considering re-igniting their interest in Manchester United defender Chris Smalling, according to the Mail on Sunday.

Arsene Wenger almost signed the England international from Fulham in 2010 only to be thwarted at the last by Sir Alex Ferguson.

But with Mathieu Debuchy possibly out for three months, Wenger is monitoring possible free agents, but could want to strengthen at the back in January by signing an established defender.

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After his performance against Leicester City for United, Arsenal fans won't be particularly desperate to see Smalling arrive at the club.

Arsenal Set to Return for Adrien Rabiot

Dean Mouhtaropoulos/Getty Images

Monday, September 22

Arsenal were heavily linked with Paris Saint-Germain holding midfielder Adrien Rabiot throughout the summer. Ultimately, a move failed to materialise.

However, John Cross of the Daily Mirror has suggested a bid is far from dead, and he says that the Gunners are already sounding Rabiot out about a potential January move.

With Mikel Arteta and Mathieu Flamini still failing to convince at the base of the Arsenal midfield, a move for Rabiot would undoubtedly excite Gunners fans.