The tough-tackling Senegal international attracted the attention of Arsenal in the January 2013 transfer window as it was revealed that he had a release clause of £3.5 million in his contract.

Diame first began his football life at the world-renowned Clairefontaine academy in France, before earning himself a move to Lens. He never made an appearance for the first-team as health problems caused his career to stall, but he soon impressed after making the move to Spain.

After a spell with lower-league Spanish side Linares - whom he joined in 2007 after impressing during trials - Diame lit up the Segunda Division with Rayo Vallecano and started to attract the likes of Barcelona and Real Madrid with his dynamic performances.

Wigan stole a march on their rivals, though, and pushed through a deal for €3.8 million in 2009, despite discovering a heart defect during his medical. He left the Latics at the end of the 2011-12 season following the expiry of his contract and was then snapped up by promoted side West Ham.

Having impressed with Senegal at the 2012 Olympics, Diame's form in 2012-13 earned him praise and Arsenal began to follow his progress.

Strengths: His strength in the tackle and relentless energy make him a tough opponent in midfield.

Weaknesses: His passing skills are not as developed as they could be and he has yet to be tested at one of the game's biggest clubs.

Career high: Sealing a move to Wigan after spending time in the lower leagues in Spain.

Career low: Issues with his health saw his career stutter in 2007 as he could not make the grade at Lens.

Style: Powerful, relentless, dynamic, a workhorse in the middle of midfield.

Quotes: "He has a great presence in the games, I have seen him have a big impact." Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger on Diame in January 2013.

Trivia: Diame almost lost out on a move to Wigan after his medical revealed a heart defect.