Arsene Wenger is keen to bring the Reds' midfield maestro to the Emirates, but any deal could be dependent on Aston Villa's willingness to allow Gareth Barry to join Liverpool.
According to a report in the British tabloid the Daily Mirror, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is ready to dip into the transfer market and make a £12 million bid for Xabi Alonso.
The Spanish international looked almost certain to leave Liverpool in the summer, with either Juventus or the Emirates appearing to be his most likely destinations.
However, his departure from Anfield was dependent on the arrival of Gareth Barry from Aston Villa - and as that deal fell through, Alonso stayed put.
The 27-year-old has been an integral part of the Reds' title push this season, featuring in all 16 league games and weighing in with 2 goals.
It is that good form which seems to have rekindled Wenger's interest in the midfielder and, while he would be ineligible for the Champions League this season, the Gunners may well need him to help steady their league form.
However, it is unlikely that Rafa Benitez will sanction the sale of such a key individual unless he is able to find a replacement.
With Barry's contract set to expire in the summer of 2010, there are rumours that Liverpool could make a bid for the England international this January.
The report claims there is just one snag - Manchester City. The Citizens have plenty of cash to throw around and could be ready to aim it in Villa's direction, which would scupper Arsenal's chances of capturing Alonso.
According to a report in the British tabloid the Daily Mirror, Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is ready to dip into the transfer market and make a £12 million bid for Xabi Alonso.
The Spanish international looked almost certain to leave Liverpool in the summer, with either Juventus or the Emirates appearing to be his most likely destinations.
However, his departure from Anfield was dependent on the arrival of Gareth Barry from Aston Villa - and as that deal fell through, Alonso stayed put.
The 27-year-old has been an integral part of the Reds' title push this season, featuring in all 16 league games and weighing in with 2 goals.
It is that good form which seems to have rekindled Wenger's interest in the midfielder and, while he would be ineligible for the Champions League this season, the Gunners may well need him to help steady their league form.
However, it is unlikely that Rafa Benitez will sanction the sale of such a key individual unless he is able to find a replacement.
With Barry's contract set to expire in the summer of 2010, there are rumours that Liverpool could make a bid for the England international this January.
The report claims there is just one snag - Manchester City. The Citizens have plenty of cash to throw around and could be ready to aim it in Villa's direction, which would scupper Arsenal's chances of capturing Alonso.
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