Ander Herrera, Mario Balotelli May Be Heading to Arsenal

Arsene Wenger is reportedly interested in signing Real Zaragoza playmaker Ander Herrera.

One would obviously question the need for more midfielders at Arsenal, given the already overcrowded queue of players waiting in the reserves.

However, there's an aura of uncertainty regarding the future of Fran Merida, as he looks set to join Atletico Madrid in the summer.

His departure will not leave a void in the Arsenal midfield, but one should also look for a replacement for Cesc Fabregas. Barcelona will obviously try and lure him away from Arsenal, and it's only a matter of time.

The 20-year-old Herrera is known for his passing range and is very promising at such a young age. Given his abilities, this Spanish U-21 could be an able replacement for Fabregas.

Arsenal could easily sign him for a sum in excess of £10 million, but the Gunners don't need another midfielder in the immediate future.

Meanwhile, Reports from Italy claim that Arsenal are favorites to sign Inter Milan striker Mario Balotelli. His strained relationship with coach Jose Mourinho is fuelling speculations of a summer move away from the San Siro.

Reportedly, he has handed in a written transfer request to escape from Inter Milan. His preferred destination is Arsenal.

Balotelli, 19, is a wonderful prospect, and an ideal fit for Arsenal. He's strong, speedy, and clever with a fierce strike. However, his temperament is not acceptable for a disciplined team like Arsenal.

Nevertheless, Wenger's tutelage may help this starlet to eradicate his follies. He's undoubtedly a future star, and within a couple of years his price tag will skyrocket to unbelievable grades, given his talents at such a young age.

Arsenal may have to pay in excess of £20 million to bring in this quality Italian footballer to the Emirates.

Wenger's record thus far suggests that he's hardly into Italian football and he's never really showed any interest in signing players from Italy. This time around, though, he should shun his "dislike" for Italy.

Furthermore, Jose Mourinho is eager to sign Steven Gerrard in the summer, and he may have to sell the unsettled striker to accumulate cash to lure the Liverpool captain to Italy.

Reportedly, Chelsea, Manchester City, and Arsenal are the most likely destinations for Balotelli.