Arsenal Transfer News: Krystian Bielik Fee Agreed, Winston Reid Rumours Sparked

Arsene Wenger has confirmed a deal is in place to sign youngster Krystian Bielik and fuelled rumours Arsenal could make an attempt to lure Winston Reid to the Emirates Stadium.

The French boss noted Bielik's arrival in England during his pre-match presser ahead of Sunday's Premier League fixture against Manchester City, per the Gunners' official Twitter account:

Wenger also revealed he is actively searching for new defensive additions after Mathieu Debuchy was ruled out for three months with a dislocated shoulder, per BBC Sport. James Olley of the London Evening Standard provided the manager's quote:

Bielik is a composed defensive midfielder, and not the centre-back craved by many, as highlighted below:

With one signing almost in the bag for Wenger, Kevin Palmer of the Sunday World believes Reid is the defender the boss is hunting:

Arsenal have consistently struggled with defensive injuries since failing to replace Thomas Vermaelen during the summer. Laurent Koscielny and Debuchy have been the side's most frustrating absentees for much of the season, with the former underlining his importance via some quality performances in the last couple of weeks.

Kirsty Wigglesworth/Associated Press

Per Mertesacker has failed to lead without Koscielny and continues to struggle with complacency this season. Extra competition in the form of Reid could spark the German back into form and provide Arsenal's defence with extra quality ahead of a busy schedule.

Reid is the kind of character who doesn't become overwhelmed in difficult situations. He keeps his cool when the pressure is on and has starred in Sam Allardyce's side this season. The New Zealander is dominant in the air, good with the ball at his feet and not afraid to put his body on the line.

Allardyce recently admitted he hopes the possibility of European football "might persuade" Reid to remain with the Hammers, per Sam Cunningham of the Mail Online.

Matt Dunham/Associated Press

Arsenal are only three points clear of Big Sam's side and certainly face a battle to confirm Champions League football next season. Despite West Ham's bright start to the campaign, one win in their last six Premier League matches suggests attaining a Europa League place may be beyond the squad's capability.

Wenger's need for new defenders could intensify over the coming weeks. Sunday's trip to the Etihad pits the north London side against a returning Sergio Aguero and the might of a City side who notched six past them in the corresponding fixture last year.

Similarly, the upcoming encounter with Tottenham Hotspur—who beat Chelsea 5-3 on new year's day—may prove to be extremely difficult without smart additions being made. Reid is available for free when his contract expires at the end of the season, per James Dickenson of the Express, but Wenger may be tempted to offer West Ham a minimal fee to secure his presence early.

Tim Ireland/Associated Press

It's refreshing to see Wenger so honest about his hunt for players. Arsenal fans will want to see quality reinforcements added to the squad, and while Bielik is a welcome arrival, further cash needs to be spent if the side are to consolidate their European chances.