Arsenal are the latest club to show an interest in signing Real Madrid striker Ruud Van Nistelrooy as the Dutch star seems set to leave the Bernabeu in January.

Van Nistelrooy is very much a fringe player for the Galacticos and looks set to leave the Spanish giants for pastures new in the January transfer window. His principle aim is to push for a place in the Dutch national team squad ahead of the World Cup in South Africa next summer.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger rarely enters the transfer market to sign 'experienced' players, but sees van Nistelrooy as a top striker who could bolster their title aspirations this season.

Arsenal are not alone in their pursuit of the Dutch striker, as they face competition from North London rivals Tottenham and Italian side AS Roma.

The 33-year-old is keen to return to England after he enjoyed an immensely successful spell with Manchester United during which time he netted 150 goals in just 219 appearances.