Arsenal are ready to step up their pursuit of Romania forward Ciprian Marica, who plays for Spanish side Getafe, in an effort to fend off Tottenham's interest in the 28-year-old.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger could opt for a lower-profile alternative to the likes of Real Madrid's Karim Benzema and Aston Villa's Christian Benteke by moving for Getafe's Romania striker Ciprian Marica, 28, in January.

Tottenham are favourites to sign former Schalke striker Ciprian Marica, 27, on a free with the Romanian international expected to move to White Hart Lane ahead of a switch to Arsenal or West Ham.

Arsenal and West Ham target Ciprian Marica, 27, is close to revealing the identity of his next club after the former Schalke striker, who is a free agent, confirmed he is in negotiations with three teams.

Romania striker Ciprian Marica's agent says the 27-year-old is close to joining Arsenal.