Wenger looking for a 'special' striker in transfer window

Manager Arsene Wenger admits Arsenal are “on alert” for a “special” forward addition as the transfer window opens, but stressed the club are not looking to replace lead man Olivier Giroud.

The Gunners head into 2014 top of the Barclays Premier League by just a single point from Manchester City, but will host Cardiff on New Year’s Day without Giroud, who has an ankle problem, and full-back Kieran Gibbs (calf). However, Theo Walcott, Tomas Rosicky and Jack Wilshere are all understood to have shrugged off minor injury concerns and so will be available for selection.