Yann M'Vila
Yann M'Vila of Stade Rennes challenges Oliech of AJ Auxerre during their French Ligue 1 match at the Route de Lorient stadium in Rennes. REUTERS

Arsene Wenger has moved to reinforce Arsenal's squad before Wednesday's transfer deadline with the addition of three players and the expectation of adding further reinforcements before the 11pm deadline.

The Werder Bremen defender Per Mertesacker is poised to complete his £8m transfer to the Emirates this morning, with Fenerbache wing-back Andre Santos expected to follow this afternoon. Wenger has already completed the signing of striker Chu Young Park from Monaco.

Wenger will decide on Wednesday whether to make a renewed effort to sign the Chelsea duo of Alex and Yossi Benayoun and press ahead with an improved offer for Rennes midfielder Yann M'Vila.

Alex's arrival appears contingent on whether Chelsea can bring in a replacement but Benayoun is available and would provide additional cover in central midfield following the sales of Cesc Fabregas and Samir Nasri.

Interest remains strongest in M'Vila, with Rennes having already rejected a £22m offer for the midfielder. A renewed bid closer to the club's £30m valuation could persuade the French club to sell.