Liverpool and Arsenal Set for Summer Battle over Gonzalo Higuain

Arsenal and Liverpool are keeping a close eye on Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain, with both clubs willing to make an approach in the summer, according to the Daily Express.

The Gunners are in the market for a world class striker to fill the void left by Robin van Persie since his departure to Manchester United in 2012. Arsene Wenger has tried to bridge the gap by bringing in Olivier Giroud and Lukas Podolski but the duo has flattered to deceive, with the latter reportedly on his way out of the club.

Danny Welbeck has also joined the club on deadline day in the recently concluded summer transfer window. However, he has not been able to put his mark on the Arsenal side, which is crying out for a proper goalscorer. Wenger was interested in signing Higuain in 2013 but his interest in Suarez delayed the deal and Napoli were quick to pounce on the player, with the Gunners left licking their wounds.

With Higuain ostensibly available yet again, it is likely that Wenger will rekindle his interest in him, especially with a considerable amount of money left in the bank to strengthen his squad.

However, he is expected to face tough competition from Brendan Rodgers' Liverpool who have failed to acquire a suitable replacement for Luis Suarez in the form of Mario Balotelli. The Italian has failed to score a single goal thus far in the league and his shirt swap with Pepe, midway through their match against Real Madrid in the Champions League, has raised questions over his long term future.

The Reds put in a forgettable performance against the Champions of Europe, with Balotelli's lack of bite through the middle making the headlines. Higuain's goal scoring ability is what Liverpool need at the moment, and Rodgers is likely to do everything in his power to secure his signature and keep Liverpool's flag waving in Europe.