Arsenal have made a surprise £22m offer for Everton midfielder Marouane Fellaini, activating a release clause in the Belgian’s contract, according to reports from Goal.

The Gunners are said to have launched the bid on Wednesday, the very same day that Roberto Martinez was unveiled as the Toffees’ new manager, and are confident of concluding a deal in the coming weeks.

Reports suggest that the figure meets a clause in Fellaini’s contract allowing him to join a Champions League club.

Arsenal’s London rivals Chelsea and Manchester United were thought to be leading the race for the powerful midfield man, but Arsene Wenger has snuck ahead with an early bid, as he looks to get his summer spending spree off to a flying start.

The Frenchman is said to have a £100m war chest at his disposal for the coming transfer window, with the club’s hierarchy keen to secure a smooth passage to Champions League qualification again next season.

Fellaini is thought to be one of his favoured targets, with a perfect mix of technique and power believed to be the missing ingredient from Arsenal’s armoury.

Wenger has also been linked with moves for QPR goalkeeper Julio Cesar and Real Madrid hot-shot Gonzalo Higuain.

Arsenal fans, is Marouane Fellaini just the player your side needs?

Comment below to let us know what you think!

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