Arsenal intend to do battle with Manchester United for Borussia Dortmund defender Mats Hummels in January. The Mail on Sunday says Hummels has been identified as the No 1 target for the Gunners during the next transfer window but the 25 year old is also wanted at Old Trafford.

Wenger, who doesn't really like buying in January, would rather not be involved in a bidding war.

In previous years he would never have considered paying the £32million for a defender but that is the fee Borussia Dortmund are said to want for the German international.

Hummels could be drawn to Arsenal given the prospect of teaming up with his international team-mate Per Mertesacker.