Arsenal transfer rumour: Arsene Wenger identifies Sporting's Islam Slimani as Jamie Vardy alternative

Arsenal have identified Sporting Lisbon striker Islam Slimani as an alternative to Leicester City star Jamie Vardy decides against joining the Gunners. The England international has emerged as a target for the north London club after he played a key role in helping the Foxes win the title last term, scoring 24 goals.

The Emirates club triggered Vardy's £20m ($28.3m) release clause as they look to secure his signature. However, Vardy, who is with the England squad for the ongoing Euro 2016, is yet to respond to Arsenal's offer.

According to The Sun, Wenger has turned his attention to the Algerian international, who has seen a sudden rise in form last term. Leicester are also believed to be interested in signing Slimani as a replacement for Vardy.

Claudio Ranieri wanted to make sure he can have a strong attack for the upcoming campaign, as they look to compete in all competitions next season, including the Champions League. The Italian manager wanted to bring in the Sporting attacker, if Vardy decides to leave the King Power Stadium.

It is believed that Wenger has accepted defeat in his side's chase for Vardy as the striker is set to agree Leicester's new offer. The situation has seen Wenger make an approach for Slimani. He was instrumental in Sporting's impressive form last term, which saw them lose the title to Benfica on the final day of the season.

Slimani has a £23.5m buyout clause in his Sporting contract. Wenger will match the striker's asking price in order to bring in a top quality striker, which has been his priority in the summer transfer window.

In the 2014/15 season, Slimani scored 12 goals in the Primeira Liga and in the previous campaign he has scored more than double, taking his overall tally to 27 goals. Sporting boss Jorge Jesus has backed his player to shine in the Premier League and score twice as many goals as the Foxes frontman.

"Vardy was this year's revelation. People say that Slimani wouldn't be able to play for Leicester but I disagree," Jesus said, as quoted by the Mirror.

"In England if he is guided by a manager who knows a lot about football, he can score double the goals Vardy does."