Gunners after Bilbao stopper

(GSM) – Arsenal have been reportedly keeping tabs on Athletic Bilbao goalkeeper Gorka Iraizoz.

Gunners boss Arsene Wenger, who was in the market for a new goalkeeper in the summer, failed in his quest to replace current No.1 Manuel Almunia with Fulham keeper Mark Schwarzer.

It now seems that Wenger had sent scouts to check on Iraizoz in action against Atletico Madrid last week.

The 29-year-old is considered to be one of the Primera Liga’s best goalkeepers with his performances having caught Arsenal’s attention.

And with less than 12 months left on his contract at San Mames, Iraizoz would be allowed to talk to clubs in January, as he would be free to move at the end of the season.

Bilbao are keen to extend Iraizoz’s deal, but as yet nothing has been agreed with the player’s representatives.

However, Bilbao coach Joaquin Caparros is confident Iraizoz will pen a fresh deal, saying: “He has had for good seasons, it will not be a problem because he wants to stay and Athletic want to renew.”