Arsenal keen to sign Atletico Madrid striker Adrian Lopez

Arsenal have stepped up their interest in Atletico Madrid striker Adrian Lopez.

Arsene Wenger's interest in the Spain international was revealed in October and the Gunners have kept close tabs on Lopez throughout the season.

And Arsenal are believed to have opened formal talks with Atletico officials over a move in this transfer window.

The La Liga club are understood to want in the region of £15million for Lopez.

Signing a new striker is top of Wenger's January list of priorities. His interest in Klass-Jan Huntelaar looks to have ended after the Dutchman signed a new deal with Schalke.

Wenger retains an interest in Barcelona striker David Villa, with Arsenal using the fact they are still owed money from the transfers of Alex Song and Cesc Fabregas to help finance a possible deal.