Arsenal to step up Jose Gimenez pursuit?

Arsenal could be preparing to step up their pursuit of Atletico Madrid centre-back Jose Gimenez, according to a report in the press.

It has been suggested in recent weeks that Gunners boss Arsene Wenger might be in the market for a new defender in January, as Arsenal aim to strengthen for a title push next year.

According to Don Balon, Wenger may aim to make an offer of £26m for the Uruguayan international, but that fee is would be well below the defender's reported £56m buyout clause.

Jose Mourinho's Manchester United are also thought to be keeping tabs on Gimenez, who has collected 21 caps for his country.