There has been a development in Arsenal's pursuit of David Villa, which relates to their parallel negotiations for Adrian Lopez from Atletico Madrid.

The out-of favour Barcelona striker is keen to move, but his club aren't keen to deal, despite their history with Arsenal.

First choice

Arsenal are targeting Villa as first choice, both for the immediate impact he could bring and the size of the signing for morale and stature.

They think they can secure Villa for a fee of around €17, slightly below their opening bid.

Barcelona will not release Villa on loan and don't really want to sell him, but he isn't considered 100 percent ready to play a large role at the moment.

Because of this, Arsenal are concentrating on chasing Villa, while Adrian remains as a back-up option, but negotiations for him are on the back burner. If Villa can't be secured (which is a bit rich of Barcelona, considering the bargain price they paid for Fabregas), Adrian will be purchased.

The Atletico man is seen as a long-term successor to Villa if he fulfils his potential, having been a huge success at lower levels. He was almost signed in the summer to replace Robin Van Persie, only for Olivier Giroud to come in before a deal could be finished.

Versatile

Villa struggled recently at Barcelona playing as a left-winger, but he can fulfil that inside-forward role with ease, as well as playing as a number 9, his best position.

His issue is that he's been unable to return to top form with reduced playing time and hasn't always impressed. When he first returned however, he looked the same as ever despite his broken leg.

With Arsene Wenger favouring players who can play all over the front three, Villa fits the bill to an extent, though you'd assume he'd generally be utilised off the bench as an impact striker, or as part of a 4-4-2 formation.

Arsenal can help him return to top form, as long as he gets the minutes. The fact he's cup-tied can work to Arsenal's advantage, as he would remain fresh for domestic games.

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