Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is set to swoop for Newcastle United talisman Obafemi Martins, as he looks to replace the departed Emmanuel Adebayor.

The 24-year-old Nigerian ace is desperate for a move away from the club who were relegated from the Premier League last season and are now in complete disarray.

The Magpies would certainly not stand in his way either, as he is one of the club's biggest earners. But without a manager, or new owner in place to sanction a deal, it may take some time to materialise.

Wenger has long been a fan of the Lagos born ace, who arrived in the north east from Inter Milan in 2006. His record in the Premier League hasn't been overly spectacular - 28 goals in 88 games - but he's shown enough flashes of brilliance to suggest that amongst better players he will flourish.

Should Wenger make the approach, as expected, he will have to part with around half of the £25milliion the club have received for Adebayor to land the man with 24 international caps to his name.

The French boss has spoken of his delight at the return of Thomas Rosicky, but he is also thought to be aware that The Gunners can't realistically challenge for the Premier League without another out-and-out forward. Martins fits the bill.