Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is lining up a shock raid on Chelsea for midfielder Michael Essien. The Sun says the Ghana star, 29, has been linked with an £8million switch from Stamford Bridge to Fenerbahce in Turkey.

But Arsenal boss Wenger will make an 11th hour intervention to give Essien the chance to stay in the capital.

Wenger, who had Chelsea's Yossi Benayoun on loan last season, is looking for extra depth in midfield after the loss of Alex Song to Barcelona for £15m.

And Chelsea could be willing to play ball if the Gunners cover Essien's £100,000 a week wages.