Arsene Wenger is expected to dip into the January transfer market after the recent injuries suffered to Arsenal’s central midfield. Jack Wilshire and Mikel Arteta have both been ruled out and the Italian press is reporting that the Gunners are taking a look at Lazio’s Argentine midfielder, Cristian Ledesma as a possible backup option. The 32-year-old opted to represent Italy but is a born in Argentina and after falling down the pecking order at Lazio could be available for a nominal fee.

Ledesma was born in Morón in Greater Buenos Aires and was a product of Boca Juniors youth system but was signed by Italian side Lecce before making his full debut in Argentina. A deep lying central midfielder, Ledesma went on to play for Lecce 126 times before moving to Lazio in 2006, where he has remained since.

Now, finding playing time harder to come by and his contract due to expire at the end of the season Ledesma is reportedly available for a knockdown price and could provide cover for Wenger’s side over the next six months.

The story first appeared in the Italian press but has since been backed up by Ledesma’s agent, Vincenzo D’Ippolito. He said, “It is true, Arsenal are interested in Cristian. There have been scouts [watching], we’ll see if there will be an opportunity to examine an offer.”

While it wouldn’t be out of the question for an agent to publicly confirm the story in an effort to drum up interest, there could be some truth in the rumour. Last season Wenger made a similar move for Swede, Kim Kallstrom with disastrous results.