Arsenal are still believed to be in the transfer market for the express purpose of signing an imposing central defender, possibly of Mertesacker's calibre. The Gunners were expected to see off Liverpool and Tottenham for the services of Christopher Samba, who in the meantime, is poised to remain at Blackburn Rovers as captain. Other notable names on Arsene Wenger's transfer wish-list include Bolton's Gary Cahill and Everton's Phil Jagielka - the pair's outrageous valuation is responsible for the proposed move's natural death.
However, there is a very high probability of Mertesacker, appearing in an Arsenal shirt soon, thanks to his current availability status and the obvious fact that his contract with Werder Bremen is up next summer. The Germany international put Arsenal and other suitors on red alert by saying that he is "excited" by the prospect of a move to the Premier League, coupled with his club's decision to listen to serious offers regarding his sale. Last week, the Bundesliga outfit's general manager Klaus Allofs reportedly said: "We are willing to discuss a transfer for Per. We have promised him we will listen to serious offers."
On the other hand, Mertesacker has done himself a great favour by opening up on his desire to switch to the Premier League: "It would be good to go gain experience abroad. I have already explained that England was interested." the big center back player enthused.
