Arsenal poised to land Hernanes

Lazio playmaker Hernanes dubbed the 'new Kaka' could be the answer to Arsenal's midfield woes. The 27-year-old Brazilian has reportedly issued a come-and-get-me plea to the Gunners, according to talkSPORT. With England star Jack Wilshere missing the entire season and Spaniard Mikel Arteta also being ruled out with an ankle injury, this area is real cause for concern for Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger. Despite attracting interest from Russian big-spenders Anzi as well as Spurs, La Gazzeto dello Sport claim that the player has told Lazio only to consider offers from Arsenal. This must be heartening news for Wenger who is set to go on a buying spree this summer as they zoom in on third place to be assured of another season of Champions League football. Arsenal are lining up a £20 million offer for Hernanes who has made eight appearances for Brazil since 2008. Despite Lazio challenging for a Champions League place this season, the club are looking to cash in on some of their prized assets, the report added. The Brazilian is keen to gain regular football since he has to battle for a place with the in-form Stefano Mauri for a place in the team. Hernanes would be an ideal foil for Arsenal captain Robin van Persie since he is ambidextrous, with the ability to dribble and strike the ball from distance with both feet. He is also a set-piece specialist, and has thrived in placing the ball on Miroslav Klose's head at Lazio, according to the report. Click to read Arsenal's Van Persie wins top award Once dubbed 'the new Kaka', The Times identified Hernanes as the most promising football player in the world in 2009. This followed over 100 appearances for Sao Paolo, as well as winning the Brazilian football Confederation's best player award in 2008. Incredibly Barcelona had an 11 million euro bid for Hernanes rejected by Sao Paulo. Though predominantly a central midfielder, Hernanes can also play as a winger, a role he has occupied for the Brazilian national team which gives Wenger more options. The battle-seasoned midfielder is unlikely to fazed by the physical demands of the English game since he changed his style to adapt to the tough Italian defenders. “I realised that you must use cunning, use your arms, push and pull shirts” he said.