Cardiff goalkeeper David Marshall has emerged as a transfer target for Arsenal as the club look to replace Lukasz Fabianski, according to the Daily Telegraph. Fabianski, who started Arsenals FA Cup final win over Hull City, is set to leave the club on a free in the summer after rejecting a contract extension. It leaves Arsene Wenger in need of a new back-up goalkeeper, with Cardiffs Marshall reportedly viewed as the ideal man to to provide cover for Wojciech Szczesny. Marshall enjoyed a brilliant season with Cardiff, earning plaudits for his performances despite the clubs relegation to the Championship. The Scottish international only signed a new deal with Cardiff in February, tying him to the Bluebirds until 2018. That long-term contract means Cardiff have set an asking-price of £15 million, an amount Wenger may be uncomfortable paying for a number two goalkeeper. Arsenals North London rivals, Tottenham, are also believed to be interested in Marshall, especially as the future of Hugh Lloris remains uncertain. However, while Spurs wait on the future of their current number one, they will not make a move for Marshall, leaving Arsenal with the chance to swoop in ahead of their rivals. Marshall began his career with Scottish champions Celtic, where he made 50 appearances before moving to Norwich in 2007. Two years later, the 29-year-old moved to Cardiff for just £500,000, where he has cemented himself as the teams first choice goalkeeper. As well as a new goalkeeper, Arsenal are also in the market for a new right back, with Bacary Sagna refusing to sign a new deal. Serge Aurier and James Milner have both been linked to the club, with the latter unhappy at a lack of first team football at Manchester City.
Simon is an NCTJ qualified sports journalist. He has conducted interviews with Tony Adams and Peter Shilton, while also having work published in The Daily Telegraph and The Sun. Follow him on Twitter via @sr_collings.
