Rumour: Arsenal set sights on Sporting Lisbon defender Marcos Rojo

Sporting’s Argentine defender, Marcos Rojo (R) heads the ball

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is interested in a summer move for highly-rated Sporting Lisbon defender Marcos Rojo, report the Daily Mail.

The Argentina international has produced several commanding performances in the heart of Leonardo Jardim’s side, who are currently in second place in the Portuguese league table.

However, although he is more than capable at centre-back, the 24-year-old’s primary position is left-back.

A summer arrival from Spartak Moscow in 2012, Rojo has also become a key member of his national side and is widely expected to earn a place in the upcoming World Cup in Brazil.

Rojo has already been scouted by several Premier League outfits throughout the campaign, including Liverpool and Manchester City, who were both reportedly impressed with his displays so Wenger faces stiff competition to secure his man.

His versatility is a big attraction to Wenger, who desperately needs to strengthen his defensive options. Club captain Thomas Vermaelen is frustrated at his lack of first team opportunities and is likely to seek a move at the end of the campaign while there are also growing doubts over the ability of Nacho Monreal.

Although Kieran Gibbs is the undisputed first choice defender on the left flank his season has been blighted by a string of injuries and a new addition is much needed at the Emirates.

Marcos Rojo has picked up eight yellow cards and one red in 21 appearances for Sporting Lisbon this season. Feisty.