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Arsene Wenger is set to make a shock move for St Etienne captain Loic Perrin in the winter transfer window.

The 29­-year-­old is valued at around £6million – and it is his versatility that appeals to the Arsenal manager.

Perrin is a regular in central defence for St Etienne but he can also play at right back and a defensive midfield player.

Wenger has to deal with a succession of injuries to his defenders and has been forced to play left-back Nacho Monreal alongside Per Mertesacker at times this season.

(Image: Getty)

The arrival of Perrin would increase Wenger’s options – and his ability to play at full-­back or in midfield is a huge attraction.

Wenger’s number one target is Southampton’s Morgan Schneiderlin – but Saints manager Ronald Koeman has ruled out any sale next month.

Wenger will have to wait until the end of the season to discover if a bid of around £ 27.5 million will succeed.

Meanwhile he is checking on Perrin who will provide experience and is comfortable in three different positions. He will also be able to play in the Champions League.