Jan Vertonghen
Ajax Amsterdam's Jan Vertonghen holds a news conference in Brussels Reuters

After successfully finishing a £11 million deal for German striker Lukas Podolski from FC Koln, Arsenal's next transfer target is Ajax defender Jan Vertonghen, according to a Daily Mail report.

The Gunners are reportedly in talks with the Dutch club for Vertonghen, who has reportedly told officials at Ajax he wants to leave the club despite still having a year left on his contract. The 25 year old Belgian, who has received glowing reports of Arsenal from international team mate Thomas Vermaelen and former Gunner Dennis Bergkamp (an Ajax coach) is being touted as a defender comfortable on the ball and with a powerful shot. In addition, Vertonghen can play as a midfielder as well.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger feels he can land the player for around £7 million, despite there being interest from other Premier League teams including Chelsea, Newcastle and Tottenham. However, Ajax manager Frank De Boer will certainly want a good fee, to ensure maximum profit, for his talented defender.

The move for Vertonghen could take added importance for Wenger, with defenders Johan Djourou and Sebastian Squillaci reportedly making a move out of the Gunners' camp this season; central defensive reinforcements will be a priority for the Frechman.

Wenger will also look to avoid a re-hash of last season's frantic activity during the closing stages of the summer transfer window. The 62 year old is in a determined mood and given that the transfer season is still a month away, this could be good news for Gunners fans.

"Podolski is an important part of our future. He is a top-class player, a very good finisher and a proven performer at club and international level," said Wenger, according to Daily Mail, commenting on the striker's signing. The sentiment was echoed by the player, who said he was happy to join the Gunners in an early deal.

"I'm so happy to be joining Arsenal and to play in the Premier League. Arsenal are one of the top clubs in Europe with a huge history. There are many top quality players and the style of football is fantastic," the Daily Mail quoted Podolski as saying.

Meanwhile, another Arsenal target, Rennes midfielder Yann M'Vila, has been arrested for allegedly assaulting a 17 year old boy at his house on Friday. The 21 year old midfielder was reportedly arrested on Monday and spent a night in police custody before released on bail on Tuesday morning.

"Yann has acknowledged that it was an inappropriate response but provoked by the betrayal of the trust he gave to this young man. As it stands, no decision has been taken yet by the Rennes prosecutor on this case but the file will be forwarded to him within eight to 10 days," Thierry Fillion (M'Vila's lawyer) told L'Equipe, according to a Goal.com report.