Arsenal are close on Nuri Sahin

The 23-year-old has been told he can quit La Liga champions Real Madrid after failing to establish himself in Jose Mourinho's midfield.

Will he wear the red in London or Mersyside?

Sahin, who still harbors hopes of making a career with Madrid, has targeted a move to the Premier League in order to revitalize his stalling career.
Arsenal were the first to register interest in the player a fortnight ago - seeing him as ideal cover for the stricken Jack Wilshere, but Liverpool appeared to be in pole position after joining the race last week.
However, despite being urged to move to Anfield by Xabi Alonso, Sahin has turned down Liverpool's advances in favour of Arsenal, following a chat with Arsene Wenger.
The Frenchman, who is fluent in German, called Sahin over the weekend and convinced him to move to north London, in a personal touch that has seen the Gunners edge ahead.
Sahin is now expected in England in the next 48 hours ahead of a medical with Arsenal, before signing on a season-long loan.
Arsenal have agreed to cover all of Sahin's wages for the season, as well as hand over a loan fee, and will have the first option to buy the player next summer, if Madrid opt to sell, as expected.
The news comes as Alex Song prepares to seal his £15 million move to Barcelona.