According to the Metro, Arsenal are all set to battle title rivals Manchester City in the chase of Celtic defender Virgil van Dijk, after the Dutchman has impressed both clubs by performing in the Scottish League on a consistent basis.

Arsenal are top of the Barclays Premier League table, but the process of recruiting top talent never stops at a club of their stature despite their league position. Arsene Wenger is satisfied with his current crop of players but the sudden unfortunate injury to Theo Walcott has proven that the club needs to continually improve the depth of the squad.

Van Dijk was part of his native club Groningen when he was spotted by Neil Lennon at Celtic Park. The 22-year old made a £1.6 million move to Scotland, and has proven to be quite the player in the back four. His ruthlessness in defence has been an asset to Lennon, who has also tipped his defender to be part of the Dutch national side soon.

The Gunners could benefit from van Dijk’s addition, although getting the defender consistent first team football at the club could be an issue, with Per Mertesacker and Laurent Koscielny firmly in the driving seat. However, with the increasing games, Wenger and Arsenal’s stature could prove too big for van Dijk to turn down.