The Independent has reported that Wenger is in Brazil not only to act as a pundit for French television but also to scout potential transfer targets.

The pressure is now firmly on Arsenal and our French boss to perform in the summer transfer window following the club’s rejection of Cesc Fabregas and his subsequent move to Chelsea.

It is universally obvious amongst fans (and I hope management) that the club needs a new marquee, world-class, striker to come in.

Giroud is a fine player, and will make a perfect understudy, but if Arsenal wants to win the league against the likes of our free-spending Stamford Bridge neighbours (who have already brought well), then, at the very least, a top striker is required.

It is vital not to stagnate after the brilliant FA cup victory, and the club must push on.

So, which strikers could Wenger be looking at the World Cup and what are their advantages and disadvantages?

Mario Balotelli

There are few men who inspire more controversy than the mercurial Italian. Many Gooners would not approve of the former Manchester City striker due to his turbulent attitude and infrequently dubious off-pitch antics.

However, the man oozes talent, if Wenger (and who could be better at it) could get Balotelli’s head down, then we could end up with one of the World’s best strikers.

His recent Serie A campaign was uninspiring to say the least, hitting just 14 goals from 30 games, although I feel that in front of a midfield of Ozil, Ramsey, Wilshere, Cazorla and Walcott, he would not struggle to find the back of the net.

Wenger has previously expressed his interest in the Italian, and AC Milan are willing to sell their striker to gather funds meaning he could be available for as little as £20 million.

Price-wise, then, Balotelli represents a brilliant option.

Mario Mandzukic

The Croatian is set to leave Bayern Munich after openly criticizing Pep Guardiola recently.

He has a keen eye for goal, hitting 18 goals in 30 league games, although the weakness of the Bundesliga must be accounted for here.

When you include Mandzukic’s 4 assists as well he does begin to look like a fairly handy player.

I am not a fan of the Croatian, I think Giroud would hit at least 20 goals in 30 games playing against average German sides with a midfield including Goetze, Kroos and Muller to supply him.

In fact, when you think of the players Mandzukic is surrounded by, and the fairly weak German teams he faces week in, week out, his stats are fairly underwhelming.

Karim Benzema

The Champions League winner would be unlikely to want to leave Real Madrid after such a brilliant season, yet he may still be forced out if Madrid succeed in landing either Aguero or Suarez.

Benzema is a class act, hitting 17 goals in the La Liga season and adding 9 assists. He is entering the last year of his contract and so would be available for around £30 million, and so economically would represent a steal.

All three strikers would be an improvement on what we have but who do you think would suit the club best?

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