Arsenal, Chelsea, Tottenham Preparing Center-Back Chase

London rivals Arsenal and Tottenham are preparing themselves for a tug-of-war involving two center-backs, during the January transfer window.

The two players involved will be Chelsea's Brazilian center-back Alex and Bolton's Englishman Gary Cahill.

Alex has fallen out of favour with Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas and has been made to train separately from his teammates. His future at the Blues is almost certainly non-existent and it has persuaded Arsene Wenger and Harry Redknapp to plot for his arrival.

According to reports, Arsenal had two bids rejected for the 29-year-old during the summer and with the possibility of getting him for cheap during January are likely to place a renewed bid. However, Wenger is likely to face competition from Spurs who themselves are looking to sign the Chelsea man.

Both sides are also in for Bolton star Gary Cahill but face added competition from Chelsea who are in search of a replacement for the eventual departure of Alex. Reports believe all agreements are in place between Chelsea and Cahill and only a final fee agreement with Bolton remains.

If Cahill joins Chelsea, he will be set to partner John Terry at the heart of the defence replicating the England national team defence.