Victor Wanyama to Arsenal: Robert Pires urges Arsene Wenger to move for Southampton midfielder

The Kenyan has long been linked with a move to the Emirates

Victor Wanyama (GETTY IMAGES)

Arsenal should try to sign Victor Wanyama when the January transfer window opens, says the club's former midfielder Robert Pires.

The Gunners are currently experiencing an injury crisis with a number of key midfield players out of action; Santi Cazorla, Jack Wilshere, Mikel Arteta and Francis Coquelin are all on the treatment table.

It is the latter that is arguably of most concern for Arsenal, with Coquelin's defensive attributes not obviously replaceable within the current squad.

The arrival of Wanywama, who was linked with a move to the Emirates before joining Southampton in the summer of 2013, would go some way to addressing the issue.

“I know Wanyama,’ Pires is quotes as telling Kenyan journalists in Nairobi.

“He is a very good ambassador of Kenyan football and has done well in Southampton but I hope he signs for Arsenal in the future.

"He has the speed, skill and physique.

“However, I think he needs to score more goals because then he will be world-class material.”

Wenger has indicated he will be on the look out for potential recruits when the transfer window opens next month.