Five players Arsene Wenger should buy

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Xabi Alonso(Age 27) Liverpool: Central midfielder

Estimated cost: £20m

Arsenal's top target last summer, Alonso was desperate to leave Anfield but Arsene Wenger baulked at the £17million asking price. Although the Spaniard has since become one of Liverpool's top performers this season, Rafael Benitez hinted he would sell Alonso in the summer but his price is likely to have increased to £20m. However, he would be an instant hit at Arsenal with close friend Cesc Fabregas.

Gokhan Inler (24) Udinese: Central midfielder

Estimated cost: £8m

Wenger is a known admirer of Inler and was thought to be close to sealing a deal for the 24-year-old before he chose to sign a new contract with Italian club Udinese earlier this season. The midfielder attracted plenty of interest thanks to his performances for Switzerland during Euro 2008 and would provide much-needed steel to the Gunners midfield. Could cost around £8m.

Roque Santa Cruz (27) Blackburn: Striker

Estimated cost: £12m

Thought to have an £18m buy-out clause in his contract, Santa Cruz is understood to be regarded as Emmanuel Adebayor's natural replacement should Wenger decide to cash in on the Togo forward. Has all the attributes to fit into Arsenal's system, plus is better in the air than Adebayor and has proven worth in the Premier League and in Europe with former club Bayern Munich.

Matthew Upson (30) West Ham: Central defender

Estimated cost: £8m

Arsenal scouted their former player back in January and, with West Ham's financial future uncertain, they could pick him up on the cheap. A mature and composed defender, Upson has forced his way into the England set-up in recent times and would provide a valuable strength in depth at the back that Arsenal have lacked this season. The Hammers could be tempted with a bid in the region of £8m.

Stephane M'Bia (22) Rennes: Central midfielder

Estimated cost: £8m

A Cameroon international who fits the Patrick Vieira mould — is tough and combative with a great engine. Still young enough to fit in with Wenger's policy of signing youth and expressed a desire to move to Emirates Stadium when Arsenal scouted him in January. Would be a cheaper alternative than Alonso as he could be available for around £8m and would not command prohibitive wages.