Barcelona striker David Villa could join Arsenal in the summer, according to Spanish newspaper Marca, if the Gunners ensure Champions League football next season.

Going into the last game of the season, Arsene Wenger's men are fourth in the Premier League, with a one-point lead over Tottenham in fifth.

However, should Andre Villas-Boas and Spurs manage to steal fourth place from their north London rivals, Marca believes the Spain international striker will move to White Hart Lane instead.

David Villa
Reuters

The tug-of-war over the 31-year-old World Cup, European Championship and Champions League winner will likely be settled on Sunday evening.

Arsenal were strongly linked with the former Valencia forward in January but negotiations failed, while Tottenham have become interested in Villa more recently.

The Gunners are believed to have a slight edge in the race for Villa's signature given their style of play, and the presence of Spaniards Mikel Arteta, Nacho Monreal and Santi Cazorla at the Emirates.

However with Lukas Podolski, Olivier Giroud and Theo Walcott already competing for the forward berth, Villa may consider a move to Tottenham as more likely to offer regular game time, particularly with the 2014 FIFA World Cup coming up fast.

Alternatives for Arsenal

If Wenger fails to land Villa, he could move for Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain. The Argentine is likely to leave the Santiago Bernabeu in the summer and the Mail believes a £22m deal has been discussed. Fiorentina striker Stevan Jovetic is also an option, with the Metro believing a move for the Montenegrin is a priority.

Of course, any move could depend on whether Wenger can offer his targets Champions League football. The Gunners face Alan Pardew and Newcastle United on Sunday evening and must win (or hope Spurs lose or draw) to ensure qualification.

Wenger on Importance of Win

Wenger has stressed the importance of a win at St James' Park, rather than relying on Spurs to drop points.

"When you finish the season strong - like we do - you already prepare for next season because you go with more certainty. Last year we had a new team and we have built up some belief. We want to use that belief to win the game on Sunday," he told www.arsenal.com.

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