Wenger looking for class in January

The Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger will consider signing only players of "a special class" during the transfer window. Wenger is attempting to strengthen his squad and give Arsenal an injection of vitality as they bid to break into the Premier League top four. They are currently fifth, three points behind Aston Villa and Manchester United.

Wenger already believes his squad is strong, and has been impressed by the youngsters who have made their mark this season. The Frenchman told the club's website: "At the moment I feel that if we do add somebody we need to add somebody who has a special class, because we have good players. "[For example] take a player like (Aaron) Ramsey. They show that they grow. Of course they still show lapses, a lack of experience, but they have quality and they can grow quickly." The Gunners boss has been linked with Liverpool's Xabi Alonso and Everton's Mikel Arteta among others. Wenger will not worry if his targets are cup-tied for this season's Champions League. He said: "I would like to think longer term. If the right player comes in, even if he is not available for the Champions League, his class is more important for me." *PA Sport