Arsenal 'weigh up shock move for Gareth Bale'

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Bizarre reports in Spain suggest Arsenal could be plotting a surprise move for Real Madrid superstar Gareth Bale.

Bale has struggled with injuries this season, and it is believed the Spanish champions could be willing to offload him next summer.

It is unlikely Bale would be open to a move to the Gunners, given his previous allegiances with North London rivals Tottenham.

And Arsene Wenger would certainly face stiff competition for his signature.

Don Balon report that Bayern Munich and Manchester United have already expressed their interest in the Welshman.

Jack Wilshere is determined to win back his Arsenal place, but does not know if his future remains at the club.

The England midfielder has found his chances at the Emirates limited this season, but started in the defeat to Cologne.

And Wilshere has hinted at his frustration over the lack of first-team opportunities.

He said, "Of course I want to be playing. It's difficult when you play every three weeks.

"It's the same as every player. I'm still determined to win my place back, I'm working hard and we'll see what the future holds - if I can get in or I can't."

Danny Welbeck saw his comeback cut short as Arsenal clinched top spot in Group H despite defeat in Cologne.

[PHOTO: COURTESY]

Arsene Wenger admitted Welbeck was “frustrated” to come off at half time but insisted that was always the plan on the Arsenal striker’s first start in over a month.

It also ended in disappointment for an experienced-looking Arsenal side against the German strugglers who have yet to manage a single win in the Bundesliga this season.

Cologne striker Sehrou Guirassy fired a 62nd minute penalty after going down very easily under Mathieu Debuchy’s challenge and Arsenal just could not find an equaliser.