Arsenal Transfer Prospects: Arsene Wenger Can Find Success in Daniel Sturridge

As expected Arsenal have enjoyed a heavy amount of the summer transfer window speculation as manager Arsene Wenger attempts to complement his vow of implementing changes into his youthful squad. However, little has materialized in terms of new signings despite numerous rumours linking key players way from the Emirates.

Captain Cesc Fabregas, playmaker Samir Nasri, veteran left back Gael Clichy and disgruntled forwards Nicklas Bendtner and Andrei Arshavin have all been touted with potential transfers despite the need for success at the Emirates greatly intensifying.

The defence is viewed as the biggest priority for Wenger as recent seasons have exposed the frailty the Arsenal centre half has a tendency to possess. Yet despite this, it is the forward line receiving the most attention.

Tottenham striker Jermaine Defoe is a recent player linked with the Gunners as critics believe Wenger needs to enforce a new dimension to his attack. With striker Nicklas Bendtner certain to depart North London, there is a requirement for a new striker. However, it is still unclear whom Wenger will target.

Including Defoe, Real Madrid's Karim Benzema, FC Porto star Radamel Falcao and OSC Lille sharp shooter Gervinho are all strong candidates; however, both  Benzema and Falcao breach Wenger's ideal spending range whilst Gervinho is likely to arrive.

But one player has arisen as the ideal forward presence Wenger could target in a bid to strengthen the Gunners' title campaign in 2011/2012.

Unwanted Chelsea striker Daniel Sturridge has emerged as one of the most chased strikers in the English Premier League but due to the Blues' recent acquisition of Fernando Torres for £50 million and the potential arrival of Santos teenager Neymar alongside the booming presences of Didier Drogba and Nicholas Anelka, the 21-year-old is unable to find a consistent place at Stamford Bridge.

The Englishman was always considered a promising talent but finally began to show fruition during his recent loan spell with Bolton. Sturridge thrived at the Reebok, securing eight goals in 12 appearances in a glorious stint.

The England U-21 star is currently pursued by the likes of Manchester United, Newcastle United and West Bromwich Albion but there is a great opportunity for Wenger to pounce on a rapidly developing clinical talent.

With the Frenchman possessing imposing strikers in Robin van Persie, Marouane Chamakh and Nicklas Bendtner, a number of critics have called for the need of a small, efficient presence who can emulate Thierry Henry and Ian Wright. Sturridge is a perfect example. Blessed with devastating pace, power and balance, the former Manchester City striker is a menace near the area and can instill the clinical edge needed at the Emirates

Chelsea have enforced a £15 million to £20 million price tag, but it is unclear whether it will stick. Nonetheless, Daniel Sturridge is a required presence at Arsenal. He is a versatile forward, and  Wenger would be able to utilize the Englishman as a winger and second striker to thrive with main sharpshooter Robin van Persie.

Wenger boasts an increased transfer budget and with the likliehood of captain Cesc Fabregas completing a move to Barcelona for over £30 million, the Frenchman will have the funds to secure Daniel Sturridge.