ARSENAL TRANSFER RUMOURS: Negredo, Afellay, Adrian and Niang on Wenger's Radar

Despite it being widely expected that both Cesc Fabragas and Samir Nasri would leave the club, boss Arsene Wenger failed to make necessary provisions and was left to scramble in Mikel Arteta and Yossi Benayoun just hours before the transfer window came slamming shut.

An eerily similar scenario appears to be unfolding this time around. Arsenal continue to claim that Robin van Perise will remain at the club, despite the Dutch striker's public vow not to extend his soon-to-expire contract. Yet, unless Wenger can use all his powers of persuasion to force a dramatic change of heart, financial realities will surely dictate that Van Persie must be sold this summer.

Gunners scout Gilles Grimandi claimed yesterday that Olivier Giroud had been signed with the thought that he could replace Van Persie, yet even last season there was a need for at least another striker to bolster a squad lacking strength in depth.

With that in mind, there could be some truth in a report in AS claiming that Arsenal are maintaining an interest in Sevilla front man Alvaro Negredo. The 26-year-old Spain international has been one of the most prolific striker's in La Liga in recent seasons, scoring a combined 34 league goals in the past two campaigns.

Negredo was in the Spanish squad for Euro 2012 and is also said to be interesting Liverpool.

If a move for Negredo is not forthcoming, Wenger could instead turn his attentions to another Spaniard in Adrian Lopez. The Daily Mail claims that Arsenal have an interest in the 24-year-old Atletico Madrid star. It would appear unlikely that the Gunners will pay Adrian's £16 million release clause, however.

Tottenham are also said to be interested in the versatile forward who has been named in Spain's Olympic squad.

Arsenal could also move to add a young forward to their ranks. After much speculation, French outfit Caen have confirmed that 17-year-old Mbaye Niang has gone on trial with the Gunners.

Contrary to what has been written on certain French and foreign websites, Mbaye Niang has left to have a trial at Arsenal with the agreement of president Jean-Francois Fortin and technical staff headed by Patrice Garande, read a statement on the club's website.

At this point, Caen has not received any offer from either a French or foreign club for Mbaye Niang.

Niang is thought to be valued at £5 million.

As well as the uncertain future of Van Persie, Arsenal are also faced with winger Theo Walcott entering the final year of his contract with, as yet, no indication that an extension will be agreed upon. But, while Arsenal will be loathed to lose their top scorer, the club may be more inclined to cash-in on the England international.

A decision must be taken soon, however. Arsenal could find an ideal replacement thrust toward their clutches with Goal.com revealing that Ibrahim Afellay has been offered to the Gunners, as well as to Inter, by Barcelona.

The report claims that the Catalan giants are eager to recoup close to €6 million for the Dutch wide midfielder as they seek funds to sign Javi Martinez.

Afellay spent almost the entirety of last season on the sidelines with a serious knee injury and could struggle to earn a place in the side with the emergence of Cristian Tello and Isaac Cuenca. The 26-year-old Netherlands international endured an unhappy Euro 2012 as the Dutch crashed out after the group phase.