Arsenal target Van Der Vaart

Rafael Van Der Vaart has emerged as a January target for Arsenal.

The Real Madrid midfielder is one of a group of star names who have been deemed surplus to requirements at the Bernabeu.

And his versatility may suit Arsene Wenger in the second half of the season, as long-term doubts persist over Tomas Rosicky and Theo Walcott.

Van der Vaart, 26, was playing for Real in recent weeks but returned to the bench as soon as Brazilian superstar Kaka returned from injury.

His high wages prevented him leaving last summer but he is believed to be willing to take a pay cut in an effort to play first-team football.

The Dutchman needs a strong finish to the season if he is to guarantee his place in Holland's World Cup squad in South Africa next summer.

Arsenal are thought to have made tentative enquiries in recent weeks about the former Ajax and Hamburg playmaker and the Spanish club are studying other offers.

Van der Vaart said: "If an opportunity emerges I would look at it because I need games.

"For the moment nobody has told me I am leaving. I am now back on the bench but I will again have a chance to show my quality."

Van der Vaart moved to the Bundesliga from Ajax in 2005 but was on the move again within three years when Real paid £12million for him. His contract expires in 2013.

He fell out with former Tottenham boss Juande Ramos at the end of last term and new coach Manuel Pallegrini admitted in pre-season that he would listen to offers.