Reports in Thursday's press link the Gunners with a move for the towering centre-back, who had a loan spell with Manchester City in 2004.

It is claimed Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is eager to strengthen his backline after watching his side concede 15 goals in their opening 13 Premier League matches.

Van Buyten, 30, has hinted an offer from the North London club would be a tempting proposition as he struggles for regular first-team football at the Allianz Arena this term.

The Belgian said in the Daily Star: "Arsenal are a very attractive club. That goes without saying.

"When we reach the mid-season break I will take stock of my situation at Bayern. There is still time for me to make a decision.

"At present I'm not getting to play as many games for Bayern as before. I am concentrating on trying to get back into the side."