Majita Nastasic, Winston Reid and Ron Vlaar are all on Arsene Wenger's radar as he looks to make a move for a central defender in the final 10 hours of the transfer window.
The Emirates boss is desperate to make a move for a centre-back following the departure of Thomas Vermaelen to Barcelona, Ignasi Miquel to Norwich, and the injury to Laurent Koscienly.
Nastasic, 21, is wanted by both North London clubs, and the Champions would allow the defender to leave on a permanent basis, as they look to recoup the £12m fee they paid for the Serbian in 2012.
Arsenal bosses are also considering a late swoop for Reid. The 26-year-old would be a back up option to Mertesacker and Koscielny, with Calum Chambers being the only other option for Wenger.
The New Zealand international arrived at West Ham during 2010. However, Sam Allardyce will be eager to keep hold of the defender, as the Hammers are short of centre-backs themselves.
Despite interest in Vlaar, both Aston Villa manager Paul Lambert, and agent, Arnold Oosterveer, have reiterated that they expect the Holland international to stay at Villa Park.
"There is no truth in the rumours. He still has a contract with Villa for one year and so he will stay there," said Oosterveer.
The 29-year old was a surprise signing for Aston Villa as they prised him away from Feyenoord in 2012, who he had represented for six years.