Arsenal identify January transfer targets, including Demba Ba, Klass-Jan Huntelaar, Wilfried Zaha, Jose Reina and Thierry Henry

Arsene Wenger ready to spend in January

Tuesday 04 December 2012 14:09 GMT

Klass-Jan Huntelaar (GETTY IMAGES)

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Arsenal are preparing a splurge in the January transfer market to arrest the concerning dip in form that has led to their worst start in the Premier League since Arsene Wenger took charge of the club 16 years ago.

According to reports today, among those on the Gunners hit list are Demba Ba, Klass-Jan Huntelaar, Wilfried Zaha, Jose Reina and another loan spell for Thierry Henry.

Arsenal's weekend defeat to Swansea was proceeded by a 'black scarf' protest by fans unhappy with the apparent unwillingness of the club to invest in players and wages. Boos then rang out at the final whistle following the 2-0 defeat.

Wenger has stated that the unrest among some sections of the fans does not bother him, although today's reports suggest he may have had a change of heart when it comes to his usual reluctance to enter the transfer market in the hunt for proven players.

Newcastle striker Demba Ba, who scored twice in last night's win over Wigan is among those linked with the Gunners. The Senegal striker has been unable to agree a new deal on Tyneside and The Sun report that Arsenal are ready to trigger his £7.5m release clause. It's also reported that the Gunners are ready to offer him £60,000-a-week plus add ons.

Another striker who may be brought in is Netherlands international Klass-Jan Huntelaar according to the Daily Mail. The striker is out of contract at Schalke at the end of the season and could be available for as little as £6.5m. His displays against the Gunners in this season's Champions League, in which he put two goals past Arsenal, appear to have convinced Wenger to pursue a move.

The Mail also report that Arsenal are in the market for a goalkeeper, with Liverpool number one Jose Reina the top target.

Arsenal's long term interest in Crystal Palace youngster Wilfried Zaha remains, with the Gunners understood to be ready to offer £9m for the 20-year-old. Thierry Henry is also expected to come in on loan in January as he did last season.

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