Arsenal to make first move for Clint Dempsey

Arsenal will reportedly make the first effort to try to sign Fulham's Clint Dempsey.

The Cottagers have offered the USA striker a new three-year deal to avoid the player leaving for free next summer when his contract expires.

The Gunners have already signed Lukas Podolski ahead of next season, and manager Arsene Wenger is thought to be keen on adding Dempsey to the squad, according to The Sun.

Dempsey has scored 23 goals so far this term as an out-and-out striker but Wenger wants to play him behind Robin Van Persie and Podolski.

The American was linked with Liverpool last week after chairman Tom Werner claimed any club would be lucky to have him.

Dempsey joined Fulham from MLS side New England Revolution in January 2007.