Arsene Wenger was pre-occupied in his search for a striker from the start of the summer transfer window that he has not really looked at strengthening his squad in the other areas.

And he is now pushed into the transfer market for a central defender after first choice center back Per Mertesacker picked up a long injury that will keep him out of the action for 5 months.

The has seen the manager linked with a number of defenders including the former Manchester United man Jonny Evans but it is now understood that Wenger has set his sights on stealing from Crystal Palace.

England international Scott Dann, who had a decent season at the back for Palace, is reportedly on the radar of the London side.

The 29-year old is an experienced defender who has been in the Premier League for a long time now. However, he is expected to cost on the higher side with as many as 4-years still left on his contract at the Selhurst Park.

He signed a new contract just last season and is an important part of Pardew’s plans at the club for the next season.

He made 35 appearances in the Premier League in the previous campaign and was one of the most consistent defenders in the league.

Merseyside outfit Everton, who are set to lose John Stones to Manchester City are also reportedly making a move for the 29-year old.

Arsenal are also linked with the likes of Federico Fernandez and Shkodran Mustafi but neither of the deals have progressed and it is now revealed that Wenger is keen on bringing Dann to the Emirates this summer.

Laurent Koscielny has been one of the most consistent defenders in recent times even in Europe and he will help Dann in his troubles if he makes the move to the Emirates.

Do you think Scott Dann is the right man to start for Arsenal in place of Mertesacker next season?