Arsenal are hoping to prise Mikel Arteta away from Goodison Park.

Arsene Wenger has earmarked Mike Arteta as the man to fill in for injured Cesc Fabregas and his versatility means that he could play with Fabregas when he returns.

Arteta, 26-years old, was bought by Everton for £2million from Real Sociedad in 2005, and has a proven pedigree in the Premier League. Arteta’s Premier League experience suits Arsene Wenger who is insisting on a player that can have immediate impact on his squad.

Arteta recently signed a new contract with Everton that runs until 2012, so it will take a strong bid form Arsenal, thought to be in the £12 million region.

Arsenal are being linked with several players in the run up to the January transfer window. Other names being mentioned include Newcastle’s Shay Given and Steven Taylor, Zenit St Petersburg’s Andre Arshavin, Barcelona’s Yaya Toure and Dynamo Kiev’s Pape Diakhate.

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