Arsenal Transfers: Wenger Targets Cheaper Option to M'Vila and U-21 'Keeper

Arsenal have been linked with two new youngsters this week. The Daily Mail links the Gunners with a move for 23-year old Toulouse midfielder Etienne Capoue.

Meanwhile, the Daily Star suggests that Arsene Wenger is also keen on adding England under-21 goalkeeper Jack Butland from Championship side Birmingham City.

This is an interesting transfer development for the Gunners. Both players are promising youngsters with the potential to develop into fine senior internationals.

Targeting these players shows that Arsenal are still fully committed to their usual transfer policy under Wenger. Both players are comfortably valued in the kind of price range which Wenger finds acceptable.

Capoue is seen as a more cost-effective alternative to long-term target Yann M'Vila.

With Rennes holding out for a major fee for the midfielder, it seems unlikely that Arsenal will be prepared to part with a reputed sum in excess of £20 million.

Capoue is a player in a similar mould to M'Vila. He is a powerful and combative midfield anchor, but also possesses natural technique and a desire to venture forward.

With Alex Song set to depart for the Africa Cup of Nations, and Francis Coquelin's recent hint that he may leave if he does not receive regular starts, additional options in midfield would certainly be welcome.

The report suggests that Arsenal are contemplating an offer as high as £10 million for a player who is also said to be drawing interest from the likes of Lazio and Barcelona.

Meanwhile, 18-year-old keeper Jack Butland—who stands 6'4"—is a player on the rise. Currently on loan at League 2 side Cheltenham Town, Butland is the goalkeeper of choice for the England under-21 team.

The Daily Star speculates that Arsenal are in pole position to land the shot-stopping starlet and are lining up a preliminary offer of £1 million.

It seems unlikely that Wenger will choose to retain the services of Manuel Almunia, while current deputy Lukasz Fabianski continues to express a desire for more regular first team action.

Speculation continues to increase about Wenger's plans for January. However, these are the kind of transfers the Arsenal boss has made his niche during his tenure in North London.

Adding two more exciting young talents to the fold could provide a crucial boost to the squad as the fixtures begin to pile up.