Wenger linked with move for Mestalla duo

Arsene Wenger is reportedly tracking Spanish defensive duo Raul Albiol and Carlos Marchena as the Frenchman looks to strengthen his Arsenal squad, according to the Daily Mirror. The Valencia stars each have contracts lasting until 2011 but could move this summer as the cash-strapped side look to ease their financial problems.

23-year-old Albiol is apparently topping Wenger’s list as he weighs up the prospect of galvanizing his defensive options. The Spanish international currently holds a huge €60m buyout clause in his contract, but with his deal set to run out Albiol could be prised away for as little as £10m.

29-year-old Marchena was reportedly the subject of a bid from the Gunners in January but was seen as to valuable by the Mestalla outfit for a mid-season transfer. Elected as Valencia captain at the beginning of the season, the player excelled during Euro 2008 and earned himself a position in UEFA’s official team of the tournament.

The Gunners have improved defensively in recent months keeping seven clean sheets in their last eight games, however, with speculation still surrounding the futures of stripped captain William Gallas, centre-back partner Kolo Toure and on-loan Philippe Senderos it is thought that new recruits could be on the horizon.