Arsenal are the latest club to be linked with a January move for Omani international Ali Al Habsi.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is reportedly eager to bring the Wigan goalkeeper to the Emirates Stadium in the New Year as he looks to increase provide competition for Wojciech Szczesny and back-up Vito Mannone.

Al Habsi, 30, has stablished himself as one of the most consistent performers in the Premier Leauge since joining Wigan, initially on loan in 2010 before making his move permanent from Bolton the following year.

The Omani, capped 74 times by hos country, recently dismissed speculation linking him with a switch to Liverpool, insisting he was “very, very happy” at the DW Stadium.

Latics boss Roberto Martinez insisted last he had no intention of letting his No1 leave despite the interest shown in him by big clubs.

“Any rumour that you can see with any of our players I see as a compliment,” said the Spaniard. “You don’t get links if you are not playing well.

“We are really focused on what we want to achieve and we are looking to improve the squad, window after window. We are relaxed about it. He is on a long-term contract and is an important player for us.

“The rumours are going to be there, as he is playing well, he has been impressive. He has developed as a player and is reaching good levels. But he has a long way to go.”

But with Arsenal now seemingly joining the chase for his signature, Martinez and Wigan could face a fight to keep hold of Al Habsi beyond January’s transfer window.

 

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