Arsene Wenger is set to kick-off an influx of summer recruits with another free signing – as former Gunner Mathieu Flamini nears a return to the club.

Flamini quit Arsenal five years ago to join Italian giants AC Milan, but was released by the Serie A side at the end of last season.

MORE: Gunners quiet on Cabaye interest

The 29-year-old has been training with Wenger’s men since the beginning of the month and appears to have impressed enough to be offered a return to north London, according to reports tonight.

And Flamini could be available for Arsenal’s trip to Fulham on Saturday lunchtime should he complete the move before midday tomorrow.

Mathieu Flamini (right) left Arsenal in 2008 (Picture: Getty)

Gunners boss Wenger has come under fire this summer for a lack of spending in the transfer window, having recruited just one player since the end of last season, with French youngster Yaya Sanogo joining on a free transfer.

But following Arsenal’s 3-1 opening-day defeat to Aston Villa last weekend, Wenger and the Gunners hierarchy appear to have upped their game.

Earlier this week, Newcastle turned down an initial £10m bid for midfielder Yohan Cabaye, while Arsenal are also believed to be pursuing Real Madrid duo Karim Benzema and Angel Di Maria