With Marouane Chamakh Close, Who Else Should Arsene Wenger Aim To Sign?

Rumour has it that Arsenal are dangerously close to finally adding another forward to their ranks. Marouane Chamakh, the talented Moroccan who Wenger sought after in the summer, is said to be close to finishing a deal with the North London side.

The 26-year-old brings much needed power and height to the Arsenal front line. Chamakh is also a strong finisher with pace and strength. The Bordeaux forward has been in good form for the past year, which has caught the eye of many big name clubs.

But with Wenger admitting Arsenal cannot afford to sign big name players, who else should they look to sign for the future? The Frenchman could do with another young, up and coming striker as well as another center half.

1. Lacina Traore-CFR Cluj

The giant Cluj striker was heavily linked with a move to the Emirates during the January transfer window but nothing came of it. The 6'8" Ivorian is considered to be the next "Emmanuel Adebayor" and fair enough: Traore is strong, fast, powerful, and due to his outstanding height, the 19-year-old is a huge threat off set pieces.

At 19, Traore has a huge future and under the tremendous guidance of Wenger, the giant forward is likely to go far. Traore is unlikely to cost more than £5 million for the Gunners. Traore will also gel nicely into the 4-3-3 or 4-5-1 system that Arsenal operate.

Due to his immense stature he is an easy target to hit with a long ball, something Arsenal have lacked desperately in recent weeks.

2. Rahmeen Sterling-QPR

The 15 year sensation will undoubtedly become the next huge thing. Tipped as the next Wayne Rooney, the QPR striker is being furiously chased by Arsenal and Fulham.

Sterling is strong and fast with a fierce finish. If Arsenal manage to poach the teenage sensation, then expect to see him shredding up the Carling Cup next season.

3. Pablo Sarabia-Real Madrid

The 17-year-old pacey striker and winger is similar to the likes of Andrei Arshavin and Theo Walcott. Quick and versatile, the teenager is capable of filling a number of positions. The Spaniard is extremely skillful with great movement and balance.

4. Mamadou Sakho-Paris Saint-Germain

Strong, tall, a born leader. It's only a matter of time before a big clubs comes and adds Mamadou Sakho to their roster.

The 19-year-old French center half has all the right traits, aggression, strength, agility, and size. Arsenal chased after the teenage during the summer but were unable to make a full deal.

Sahko could cost a fairly high amount but Wenger may be able to swap Emmanuel Eboue, who one day would like to join PSG, for the talented Sahko.

5. Sergio Canales Madrazo-Racing Santander

The highly talented attacking midfielder is being chased by Arsenal and Real Madrid. Canales is intelligent and skillful with a great passing and running range. The Spanish teenager also has an eye for goal and is set to become a huge star.

Although it is looking increasingly likely that he will sign with Madrid, there is still always a chance Wenger could make a late swoop.

6. Cédric Mongongou-AS Monaco

A tall imposing defender who has good experience under his belt. The 20-year-old is tall and great in the air.

The DR Congo man would add more defensive depth to the Arsenal backline and could help ease pressure on William Gallas and Thomas Vermaelen.

7. Macauley Chrisantus-Hamburg

The 18-year-old Nigerian is blessed with speed, power, and height. The Hamburg sharp shooter is a natural goalscorer, which was evident during his impressive Under 17 World Cup display.

Arsenal and Manchester United are said to be extremely interested in the teenager and rumour has it Arsenal lodged a £2 million dollar offer for the talented striker.

There are arguably more out there who would thrive under the eyes of Arsene Wenger—who are they?