Arsenal boss Wenger plans move for striker in January

Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger confirmed he wants to sign a new striker in the January transfer window - but insists he will not be held to ransom.

The Gunners are without striker Robin van Persie, who has been ruled out for five months because of an ankle injury.

Bordeaux's Marouane Chamakh and Italy Under-21 star Mario Balotelli have been linked with moves to the Emirates.

"We will be out on the market that is for sure - however, we will only make a decision if it suits us," said Wenger.

Van Persie - who has netted eight times in 11 matches this season - underwent surgery to reconstruct his ankle ligaments following an injury sustained in action for the Netherlands on 14 November.

Arsenal are also without Nicklas Bendtner, who has been absent for three weeks after recuperating from an operation on a groin injury.

However, the Denmark international could return to action within the next two weeks.