Arsenal in contest with mega-rich Manchester City to sign £12m Bosnian hotshot striker Edin Dzeko

Arsene Wenger has opened talks with Bundesliga champions Wolfsburg over the signing of German player of the year Edin Dzeko.

The Arsenal boss is competing with moneybags Manchester City for one of the most sought-after strikers in Europe with the bidding starting at £12million.

Wenger is convinced that can beat off competition for the Bosnian with the chance to play in the Champions League for Arsenal a crucial factor.

Dzeko scored 26 goals in 32 appearances last season as Wolfsburg beat off late competition from Bayern Munich to seal the first German national title in the club's history.

Despite the interest from City - and the prospect of a much higher salary at Eastlands - Dzeko, 23, moved to Wolfsburg two years ago from FK Teplice, but he caught the eye of Wenger with his impressive performances in Germany.

He was signed by Felix Magath two years ago for just under £4m and has improved so dramatically at Wolfsburg that he has been monitored for some time by Arsenal's chief scout Steve Rowley.

Although Wolfsburg, who have the backing of German car giant Volkswagen as their principal sponsor, are under no pressure to sell after qualifying for next season, Arsenal's bid is tempting.

Dzeco scored 17 times in 34 Bundesliga appearances for Wolfsburg and he has become of the biggest names in German football after landing the player of the year title.

His potential arrival at the Emirates will throw the future of several strikers in doubt, with long-term fears that Eduardo may never reach his full potential following his return from the injury he sustained in a challenge with Birmingham defender Martin Taylor in 2008.

Robin van Persie has still not signed a new contract with the club and despite the repeated denials, Emmanuel Adebayor will be sold by Wenger if Inter Milan pay the £24m being demanded by the Gunners.

Emmanuel Eboue, meanwhile, admits he's considering his future at Arsenal.

The Ivory Coast international midfielder said: 'I have this season not played very many matches. With the World Cup, the prospect is not pleasant.

'There are several clubs interested, so I will wait. Before starting pre-season for the new season I hope to have clarity.'