Arsenal need a proven striker, there is no doubt about that. The January transfer window is not exactly the best time to look for premier players, that is also understood.

So, considering the two aspects, why not make a move for a world-class striker, who might be available on a short-term loan deal?

News came out in scores suggesting Swansea had moved up in the line to secure the signature of David Villa from Barcelona on a three-month loan deal when the transfer window opens in January.

Betting firms cut the odds of Swansea signing Villa quite considerably Wednesday after receiving large bets on the player moving to Wales.

"It is certainly a surprising development but, judging from the size of the stakes, it appears somebody knows something we don't," Sky Bet's Chris Spicer said.

"The suggestion is that Barcelona could allow the Spain striker to leave on a loan deal in the intention that he can regain form following the leg break, having looked some way off his best since returning at the start of the season.

"The Swans appear good suitors given their current Spanish contingent and preference to playing attractive football."

So aren't Arsenal good suitors as well? The Gunners play an attractive style and their need for s striker is well known. Arsene Wenger has sent enough talent to Barcelona in recent years, so maybe it's time that one of them came to play at the Emirates - you know sort of returning the favor -- always good for business and keeping up a good professional relationship.

Villa would definitely add that much needed potency to Arsenal's attacks and with his penchant for shifting to either flanks, it will work perfectly for Arsenal's fluidity with the Gunners preferring to play with three up front.

Klaas-Jan Huntelaar could be on the way to the Emirates, and so could Fernando Llorente or Demba Ba, depending on what you read and when.

However, adding a player of Villa's quality, even for as short a spell as three months, might just be the fillip needed to finally turn Arsenal into contenders for silverware this season.