Rumour: Arsenal sets sights on Di Maria, Pedro and Cuadrado

Di Maria in action for Real Madrid

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has stepped up his pursuit of a new winger and earmarked three highly coveted talents as his primary targets ahead of a summer move to land at least one of the trio, report the Daily Star.

Real Madrid’s Angel Di Maria, Barcelona’s Pedro and Fiorentina’s Juan Cuadrado are all reportedly on the Gunners’ list as Wenger plans to bolster his attacking options ahead of next season.

Although the north Londoners boast several accomplished midfielders within their ranks, the absence of pace on both flanks was noticeable towards the end of the season once Theo Walcott was sidelined through injury.

Striker Olivier Giroud does not possess the speed to get in behind a defence, so the addition of a quick wide man would open up the possibility of a new avenue to Arsenal’s play and also complement those already at the club, particularly Mesut Ozil, who thrives on being able to find his team mate with precise through balls.

As such it is a natural move for the Frenchman to seek a new addition and he has set his standards very high with his outlined targets.

Although the midfielder enjoyed a an excellent season at the Bernabeu Di Maria recently admitted that the club will have the final say on his future and could be available for £25 million.

Similarly Pedro’s future with the Catalan giants is unclear and he is believed to be amongst a number of established players that will be sold by new boss Luis Enrique is his valuation is met.

A deal for Fiorentina’s Colombian star could prove to be less straightforward as the 26-year-old is co-owned by La Viola and his former owners Udinese.

However, at £20 million he would represent the cheapest option and given Wenger’s frugality in the transfer market has emerged as the most likely arrival.