Transfer news: Arsenal rejoin the hunt for Benfica striker Rodrigo

Arsene Wenger continues the hunt for a new striker by rekindling interest in Benfica forward

Benfica striker Rodrigo (Getty Images)

Premier League leaders Arsenal are among three clubs striving to strike a deal for Benfica forward Rodrigo before the end of the January transfer window, according to reports.

The Daily Express suggest that the Gunners, alongside Valencia and Zenit St Petersburg, are interested in a quick-fix deal to sign the 22-year-old.

Zenit are currently leading the chase for Rodrigo, having a £25m bid accepted, but the player is rumoured the doubt the advantages of swapping Portugal for Russia.

Should he reject the chance to join Zenit, Valencia and Arsenal will be left in a two-horse race to secure the Brazil-born Spaniard before the end of the month.

Neither clubs, however, are willing to match the Russian club's valuation and may press for a loan deal instead.

Meanwhile Jack Wilshere, enjoying a fine season with the Gunners, has said that the North Londoners are in no great need of reinforcements.

"People underestimate our squad," he said. "We have a lot of talent in there. Look at the bench - Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain plays for England, Podolski, Vermaelen isn't even on there because he's injured.

"We have to rotate sometimes and we do. Mikel comes in and I go out or to the right and that is important. If we are going to win the championship that is what we are going to have to do."