Arsene Wenger
Paul-Georges Ntep says he would like to join Arsene Wenger at Arsenal. [Reuters]

Arsene Wenger has confirmed his interest in Auxerre striker Paul-Georges Ntep and will be keeping an eye on him this January, according to the Metro.

The 21-year-old has had a major impact with the U20s and has established himself as part of the setup in the Ligue 2 club. Wenger is in the market for a striker and may look for a possible swoop in January if no other option presents itself.

The Gunners have done business with Auxerre recently, having bought Yaya Sanogo last summer. The youngster has been out for a long time owing to a back injury and Wenger is keeping his eye open for other young prospects which will improve his team in the long term.

"Paul George Ntep has the potential to have a great future. It all depends on his mind, but he is a great prospect," Wenger said.

The player has previously expressed his desire to take the next step in his career and is willing to move out of his current club in search of greener pastures. The young striker is willing to give Arsenal a chance but has previously insisted that it will depend on the project he is signing up for.

"Arsenal is a club that trusts young players. But it would all depend on the project. If it is going to a new club to remain on the bench, what is the improvement? I don't ask to be in the starting 11 of a big club immediately, but I could help in the not too long-term," he told L'Equipe.

"If I have reached such a level now, it is because Auxerre offered me stability that allowed me to reach new levels. I don't forget. Nowadays you can be a much-demanded player and tomorrow the player everyone will laugh about," he explained.

The Gunners are currently second in the Premier League, level on points with Liverpool and trailing on goal difference. Wenger's team have managed to tide over a difficult period and are now faced with a bunch of easier fixtures where they can look to build their lead.