The transfer window is finally starting to hot up in the Football Transfer Tavern after a slow start to proceedings.

Today’s copy of The Express now claims that Arsenal will have to fend off competition from Serie A sides Inter Milan and Juventus as they attempt to sign Real Madrid youngster Alvaro Morata on loan in the coming weeks.

The 21-year-old Madrid striker has reportedly been outlined by Arsene Wenger as he looks to ease the striking concerns at the Emirates Stadium.

Theo Walcott has been ruled out for the rest of the season while Nicklas Bendtner will not be available until the end of February.

However Italian reports indicate that both Juve and Inter are also looking at the talented Spanish Under-21 international, who has struggled for game time at the Bernabeu this term. They would be capable of matching any offers Wenger makes for Morata as they try to strengthen their strikeforces.

Madrid want to keep hold of the prospect, but coach Carlo Ancelotti could be prepared to send him out on loan in order to aid his development.

Gunners supporters in the bar will now have to hope that he decides the Premier League would be more productive than a move to Italy as they try to secure a top striker in their quest for the Premier League title.