Arsenal back in for Mainz 05 defender Jean-Philippe Gbamin?

Mainz 05 centre-back Jean-Philippe Gbamin is back on Arsenal's transfer radar ahead of the summer window, according to a report.

The Gunners are rumoured to have missed out on the 23-year-old seven months ago when Unai Emery first arrived at the club.

Emery was unable to move for the Ivory Coast international in January due to a lack of funds, but The Express suggests that defensive arrivals can be expected ahead of next season.

Gbamin is one of those being targeted by Arsenal, though the report indicates that his fee may prove a sticking point as Mainz want around £40m for the former Lens ace.

However, Gbamin has admitted that he is open to a move away from the Opel Arena and that may force the German club's hand when it comes to negotiating with the Gunners.

Speaking last summer, sporting director Rouven Schroeder revealed that an "extraordinary offer" was tabled - and knocked back - for the ex-France youth international.