The Rangers defender Mahjid Bougherra was strongly linked with a move to the Emirates last summer when the Gunners were desperate for an experienced centre-back.

Arsene Wenger made a special point of praising the Algerian international at the World Cup last year, but Bougherra’s contract didn’t allow him to leave Ibrox.

Now he is ready to leave Scotland and is really keen to return to the Premiership again, and according to Setanta, Arsenal are once again the most likely club to give him the opportunity. He certainly has the strength and experience that Wenger keeps talking about!

Bougherra told the media that his intention is to move on, but he had no wish to leave on bad terms with Rangers or their new manager Ally McCoist after his successful time at the Scottish giants.

He said: ”My focus is still on the Premier League. I played there for six months with Charlton and I want to go back as six months isn’t a long time.

”I’ve spoken to Coisty and told him that if there is a new challenge which excites me then I’d like to take it. He understands my position.

”I have told him the truth because I respect him. He knows me, he knows what I need and he knows I have a good relationship with the club but if I go, I’d have to go cleanly.

“I don’t want to lose what I have built up.”

Do Arsenal fans think Bougherra would make a solid partner for Thomas Vermaelen?

Justarsenal