Arsenal leading Parker chase?

Sources from North London reveal that Arsenal are in the pole position to sign West Ham United’s Scott Parker. It should be confirmed by a bid from Arsene Wenger  by next week. Despite strong rumours, the newly appointed manager, Sam Allardyce  made it clear that no official bid has been received.

Scott Parker is the kind of player that we lack in our squad. Although West Ham are relegated now, his performance last season for the Hammers shows his winning mentality and leadership qualities which we lack here at Arsenal. With Parker’s presence at the midfield, Wilshire and Fabregas will get the freedom to attack.

Harry Redknapp revealed that his top priority is a striker to replace misfiring Defoe and Crouch at White Hart Lane.  Arsenal should get the signature of the English veteran for about  £5 million.