Cape Town - Arsenal's strength in deep is set to be tested as Athletic Bilbao step up their interest in a pair of the club's Spanish players.
The Daily Star report that Athletic Bilbao are interested in bring Spanish duo of Mikel Arteta and Nacho Monreal back to Spain.
With coach Arsene Wenger continuing to be active in the transfer market, it seems that the pair may depart the Emirates to make place for new talent.
Wenger said in July: "I think August 15 to 30 will be busy again.
"I'm very happy [with our business] and I'm still open
to doing more."
Mikel Arteta has just one year left on his current deal while Monreal has not been able to force his way into the starting lineup.
Athletic Bilbao have significant transfer funds available after selling star player Ander Herrera to Manchester United earlier in the transfer window.
Arteta has spent three season under Wenger and has done well to become an integral part of the midfield but at 32-years-old could be moved on in this window as Arsene Wenger chases the signature of Sami Khedira.