Arsenal may turn their attentions to Germany international Per Mertesacker as they grow increasingly frustrated in their attempts to sign Phil Jagielka.

Arsenal tickets

The Everton man has been a target for the Gunners for some time but the London club is unwilling to meet the Toffees asking price of £18m.

Werder Bremen's Mertesacker may prove to be a cheaper option at around £10m and after excelling in his country's run to the semi-final of the World Cup in South Africa there would appear to be little doubt that he could adapt to the rigours of the Premier League.

The lure of London and playing under manager Arsene Wenger is understood to appeal to the 25-year-old though Bremen - who still have him under contract for two more years - will try to resist any offers.

However, any agitation on the part of Mertesacker could facilitate a deal as his value will have declined significantly next summer when just a year of his deal will remain.

Join the Sportingo fans page on Facebook!