Catalan giants Barcelona continue their search for a creative midfielder after failing to land the Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho during the summer transfer window.

La Liga leaders made several attempts to secure the signature of the Brazilian international but Liverpool held firmly with their stance of not letting their star man leave Anfield.

And despite the suggestions that Barcelona could return for the Brazilian again this winter, the emerging reports claim that Catalans have identified the Coutinho alternative.

Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo has it spread out that Barcelona are now exploring the possibility of landing the former Real Madrid star and wantaway Arsenal genius Mesut Ozil.

The German international has yet to commit to a new deal with the Emirates-based club and is running out of contract at the end of the season which means he would be allowed to open talks with interested parties this January if Arsenal do not sell him during winter.

The Gunners are reportedly keen to cash in on the midfielder rather than seeing him walk out on a free deal next year and would be willing to listen to the offers for the 29-yea-rold midfielder.

Barcelona are well-aware that Arsenal would be forced to accept a cut-price deal for Ozil and are reportedly preparing a January bid, hoping to land their long-term target.

The Catalans tried to sign Ozil in 2010 from Werder Bremen before the World Cup winner opted to join Real Madrid instead.

Arsenal are preparing for the North London derby against Tottenham this weekend and the Gunners could be found at a 2.50 (6/4) price to secure three points in this highly-anticipated match at the Emirates.