The Gunners defence has been inconsistent this season and they are currently embroiled in a three-way battle among London rivals Chelsea and Spurs, to finish in the top four of the Premier League.

It is safe to assume that Wenger has identified some of his targets, which could strengthen the Arsenal squad ahead of next season.

The Gunners have cash reserves in excess of £120 million, out of which £70 million has been earmarked for summer transfers. The Frenchman is not known to spend big, but this summer could be different as he looks to add some established names to his squad. Even former Gunners vice-chairman David Dein believes that Wenger is finally ready to splash the cash.

Wenger wants to add more strength to his backline and has reportedly got his eye on Wales captain Ashley Williams, who helped Swansea win the Capital One Cup this season. He has been one of the most consistent defenders in the league in the last two years, and even though he signed a new deal at the Liberty Stadium only last November, he is widely expected to depart this summer.

Arsenal captain Vermaelen has surprisingly been inconsistent this season and has recently lost his place in the side to fellow centre-backs Mertesacker and Koscielny. The pair has formed a successful partnership, coinciding with Arsenal’s recent resurgence in the league.

And this has led to speculation that Wenger could sell his captain to make room for the 28-year-old Williams. Wenger remained coy when he was asked about the future of his captain and reports linking Arsenal with a move for the Swansea captain.

According to The Guardian, Wenger spoke about Williams saying, “There is no truth in anything at the moment because we are not at all in the transfer market. We are just focusing on our next game.”

He was also asked about his captain’s future at the club and he said, “Yes, of course. He has a long-term contract. He is our captain and periods where you don’t play can happen. That’s part of our job, to be in competition or not.”