Ciprian Marica 'close to joining Arsenal'

Arsenal are close to signing out-of-contract striker Ciprian Marica, according to the player's agent.

After failing to sign many of their primary forward targets, including Luis Suarez and Gonzalo Higuain, in the transfer window, the Gunners are looking at free-agent alternatives to add to their squad.

Romanian international Marica is without a club after leaving Schalke 04, where he scored six goals in 56 matches, in the summer, with Inter Milan and Lazio both apparently interested in securing his services.

However, the Emirates Stadium appears to be a more likely destination after the 27-year-old's agent, Ioan Becali, revealed that his client could complete a move to North London in the near future.

Becali told reporters: "Marica is a really great striker who has already got experience in western European football and so it's natural that big clubs are eyeing his career.

"He's close to joining Arsenal , but we have to wait for the next week."

Marica has scored 22 goals in 63 international appearances for Romania.