Arsenal prepared to make move for Bayer Leverkusen striker Javier Hernandez

Arsenal have stepped up their interest in former Manchester United striker Javier Hernandez as Arsene Wenger looks to stock up on more attacking options to make a proper challenge for the title. The Mexican has been in brilliant form this season for Bayer Leverkusen and has seen interest from a lot of other clubs across Europe.

Spanish news outlet Don Balon reports that Arsenal are among the many clubs that have made an enquiry for the 27-year-old, opening up a route for the striker to return to the Premier League. Hernandez has scored 11 goals in his last 10 games for Bayer and would be a brilliant option upfront for the Gunners, who are missing Danny Welbeck through a knee injury which would keep him out till at least the New Year.

Real Madrid are among the teams interested in his signature, having spent a season on loan at the Santigao Bernabeu last year. A bunch of Serie A clubs are also keeping a close eye on his development but the player is reportedly happy with life in the Bundesliga. However, even if Bayer manage to keep him at the club in January, there are likely to be more bids in the summer, something the Bundesliga outfit have to be wary of before deciding his future.

The Gunners are currently second in the league table and have an opportunity to open up a gap between themselves and title favourites Manchester City with a win when the Citizens visit the Gunners on Monday, 21 December. The north London club are besieged by injuries to key players, with up to seven players unavailable for the fixture.

Alexis Sanchez, who has returned from Chile after undergoing rehabilitation in his home country, has a chance to feature against the Citizens, but Wenger is unlikely to take too many risks considering his long-term fitness. Meanwhile, City have received a massive boost with Sergio Aguero confirmed to be back in the squad at the Emirates but is still unsure of a start on Monday.