Transfer gossip: Arsenal bid £29.4m for Gonzalo Higuain

Gonzalo not forgotten

In their bid to mount a genuine title challenge next season, Arsenal's transfer plans seem to have a clear focus on quality rather than quantity. Part of that involves supplementing already strong options with extra quality - and that includes striking alternatives to Olivier Giroud and Danny Welbeck. Gazetta Dello Sport report that the North Londoners have bid £27.4m for Napoli's Gonzalo Higuain - and a bit of haggling may result in them getting their man.

Mercenary Benz

Talking of high-profile strikers on the continent possibly heading to these shores, Manchester United too have a marksman in their sights. The Manchester Evening News claim something of an exclusive regarding Karim Benzema and a potential move to Old Trafford. Apparently, Ed Woodward has already held talks with the striker's agent, and the Real Madrid man may be minded to make the move.

Van Persie you later

The selfless Frenchman could well be lined up to replace the departing Robin van Persie as Wayne Rooney's strike partner next season. The Daily Star reckon Van Persie has all but agreed to join Serie A side Lazio, after being told he is not in Louis van Gaal's first team plans. Quoting Italian daily Il Messaggero, the Star claim the transfer fee would be in the region of £10m for the 31-year-old silver fox-in-the-box.

Bonus features...

*Chelsea target Radamel Falcao has admitted he wants to remain in the Premier League. (Daily Mail) *Jose Mourinho will allow Petr Cech to join another English club this summer. (Daily Telegraph) *Liverpool are considering a bid for Burnley defender Kieran Trippier. (Times) *[Insert club] are set to offer [insert fee] for 20-year-old Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling but face competition from [insert other clubs]. (Daily Mirror)