Arsenal linked with move for midfielder

Crystal Palace midfielder James McArthur has been scouted by Arsenal ahead of a potential January bid, according to reports.

The 28-year-old has been a key member of Alan Pardew’s side this season, having featured in every Premier League game so far. He managed to get his first goals of the campaign against Newcastle at the weekend, bagging the first and last goals in the 5-1 win.

The Scottish international only signed a new three-year deal with the Eagles in July, so Palace would not be in a position where they had to sell the midfielder if they decide that they wish to keep him, which is almost certainly the case.

Arsenal are in the market for a holding midfielder as Mikel Arteta, Santi Cazorla, Francis Coquelin and Jack Wilshere are all currently out as the Gunners’ injury list seems to grow longer every week.

According to the reports, Arsenal believe that they could sign McArthur for around £7million, but at that price, it’s hard to see Palace selling.