Arsenal quoted £25m by Manchester United for Chris Smalling?

Arsenal have reportedly been told by Manchester United that they will have to pay £25m to sign defender Chris Smalling.

The Gunners are allegedly looking to provide cover at the back for when Per Mertesacker, who is retiring at the end of the season, hangs up his boots.

According to the Sunday Star, Arsene Wenger has turned his attention from West Bromwich Albion defender Jonny Evans and is now focused on England international Smalling as an option.

The newspaper adds that United have quoted £25m as the price that the Gunners will need to pay to push through a potential switch down south for the 28-year-old.

Smalling, who joined United from Fulham in 2010, has made 30 appearances for Jose Mourinho's team so far this season.