Arsenal switch goalkeeping targets from Mainz's Loris Karius to Genoa's Mattia Perrin

Arsenal have reportedly switched goalkeeping targets from Germany's Loris Karius to Italy's Mattia Perin, after the former opted to remain in January.

According to the Mirror, Arsene Wenger has turned his attention to the young Italian keeper after Germany's U21 keeper Karius opted to join Borrusia Dortmund following the expiry of his contract with current club Mainz this summer.

The north London club were keen on the Mainz keeper, but following his snub they have quickly turned their attention towards Perin, who has been impressive for Genoa this season.

The Gunners have recently had problems between the sticks, with number one stopper Wojciech Szczesny suffering a slump in form, which saw him being dropped from the starting XI in favour of summer arrival David Ospina. The Colombian international, who has been struggling with injuries since his arrival, has now started two games on the spin and will be keen to hold on to his place in the starting XI.

The Polish goalkeeper was also reprimanded after reports suggested that he was caught smoking following Arsenal's loss to Southampton on New Year's Day. This has led to speculation regarding his future and hence the links to various keepers.

Apart from the above mentioned duo, the north London club were also linked with Chelsea stopper Petr Cech, who is believed to be looking for a new club after falling down the pecking order at Stamford Bridge.

However, Wenger dismissed speculation regarding the Czech international, but could be keen to sign a young understudy for Ospina and Sczczesny in the form of Genoa's Perin.

The 22-year-old Italian international keeper is contracted to the Serie A club until the summer of 2017 and has impressed this season following clean sheets against AC Milan and champions Juventus.