ARSENAL LAUNCH BID FOR TROYES ACE

ARSENAL are attempting to bolster their squad with the capture of Troyes midfielder Jerome Rothen, although Arsene Wenger faces competition from a number of French clubs for the left sided player.

The 23-year-old was believed to have been at Highbury on Tuesday evening to see Arsenal defeat Juventus 3-1 in the Champions League.

Bordeaux and Monaco have already enquired about the player this season, but Wenger is looking fend off their interest and secure a 25 million franc (£2.3 million) deal for the French ace.

Rothen is an out-and-out left winger and will be known by many English fans for his stunning performance in Troyes 3-2 Uefa Cup victory over Leeds United earlier this year, where he scored the French side's third goal.

The Paris-born ace is believed to be tempted at the prospect of moving to North London, but Paris Saint Germain could yet offer him a route back to his hometown.  Despite any late interest from Luis Fernandez's side, Wenger will still be more than confident of agreeing a deal with Troyes for Rothen.

If a deal was finalised, however, the player would not be able to join Arsenal until Le Championnat's transfer window opens in January.

Arsenal are seemingly determined to prolong their Champions League campaign, as well as continue their push for The Premiership title and Rothen's capture would certainly give Wenger an extra option in his already talented squad.