Clint Dempsey
Clint Dempsey has made public his desire to move to a bigger club this summer. Reuters

Arsenal's summer transfer programmed is gathering steam. A report in The Sun suggests the Gunners will move for Fulham forward Clint Dempsey, who scored both goals in his club's win over Sunderland, on Sunday.

The American striker has been in sublime form this season with 23 goals to his name and has also been linked with a move to Liverpool after the Reds' chairman Tom Werner admitted any club would be lucky to have the American. However, it now seems the Gunners are favourites to sign the player, with Arsene Wenger keen to play him behind captain Robin van Persie and new signing Lukas Podolski next season.

The player's contract expires next summer and the Cottagers have offered him a three-year deal but Dempsey has yet to commit his future to the west London club and Fulham could be tempted to cash in on the player's good form.

The report also says Arsenal have Blackburn winger Junior Hoilett in mind if they fail to land Dempsey. The 21 year old has collected seven goals and six assists so far this season and has been the silver lining in the cloud for the relegation-threatened club.

Arsenal can provide Hoilett with an opportunity to play for a big club, increased exposure and probably a chance to play against opponents in the Champions League. The Canadian has reportedly refused to sign a new deal with Blackburn and looks likely to leave on a free transfer in the summer, with Rovers on the brink of relegation.

Meanwhile, Fulham boss Martin Jol has stated he is hopeful Dempsey will remain at Craven Cottage next season.

"He knows what [the fans] think of him. Hopefully it's enough for him to sign his contract," Goal.com quoted the Dutchman as saying.

"I want to be positive. You are talking about the scenario that a couple of players won't be here. If all the players are here [next season] we will only get better. [I'm not surprised by Dempsey] in this game, because I know that he will only get better. You talk to him and he wants to get better because of course he's not perfect, no-one is perfect, but he's improving," Jol added.

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