Arsenal boss Unai Emery is keen to bring Sevilla midfielder Stephen Nzonzi at the Emirates.
The new Gunners boss has however had to convince the club’s hierarchy to push ahead with a deal for the 29-year-old former Blackburn and Stoke star. Arsenal showed some initial interest in the France international in January, but head of recruitment Sven Mislintat decided against taking it any further.
However Emery, who signed N’Zonzi during his time in charge of Sevilla, is a huge admirer with the player also keen to link back up with his old boss.
Arsenal are also linked with Borussia Dortmund defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos and Juventus right back Stephan Lichtsteiner.