Arsenal Transfer News: Cabaye Summer Move Lined Up; Gunners In Talks with Torino for Ogbonna

Feb 25, 2013 05:04 AM EST

Arsenal are back in the hunt for Newcastle midfielder Yohan Cabaye, while Arsene Wenger has sounded out Torino over a possible summer move for Italian international defender Angelo Ogbonna.

The Gunners were linked with a move for Cabaye last summer, but a move never materialized.

However, with Wenger having plenty of money at his disposal next season, Arsenal might be finally ready to firm up their interest in the French international with a £15 million ($23 million) move being mooted, according to the Daily Express.

Arsenal are thought to be planning a major overhaul of their squad, with several of their fringe players expected to either leave on a free transfer when their contracts end or be sold to the highest bidder.

Quality has been the issue for Wenger over the past eight years, with the manager unable to or refusing to - depending on your viewpoint - offset the loss of several star players by bringing in someone to match them in terms of ability and quality.

Cabaye, who has been one of the best playmakers in the English Premier League over the past couple of season, will be a great addition to the squad, with Arsenal already boasting of a midfield consisting of Mikel Arteta, Jack Wilshere and Santi Cazorla. Add the Newcastle man and a physical defensive midfielder and Arsenal will be golden for next season in that department.

Another position that Wenger is looking to strengthen is the defense, with Torino defender Ogbonna interesting the Arsenal manager.

Liverpool and Manchester United have also been heavily linked with a move for the 24-year-old, but Arsenal have taken the first step over a possible signing in the summer, by officially expressing their interest with the Italian club, according to the Metro.

Torino are demanding a fee in excess of £15 million ($23 million), but Arsenal are confident of agreeing a deal heavy on add-ons to reduce the initial amount.

Arsenal have been heavily linked with moves for a goalkeeper - Pepe Reina and Victor Valdes - while Etienne Capoue and Victor Wanyama are the likeliest signings in the defensive midfield department. Add one of either David Villa or Stevan Jovetic, and Arsenal should have a squad capable of competing for honors next season.

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