Arsenal are reportedly exploring the possibility of signing Samuel Umtiti on loan from Barcelona for the 2019-20 season.
Gunners boss Unai Emery is eager to bring in at least one new central defender before Thursday's 5pm deadline after club captain Laurent Koscielny left for Bordeaux earlier this week.
The likes of Daniele Rugani and Dayot Upamecano have both been linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium, but Arsenal are understood to have been priced out of both deals.
The Daily Mail reports that they have now turned their attention to a temporary deal for Umtiti, who fell behind Gerard Pique and Clement Lenglet in the pecking order at Barcelona last season.
Umtiti, who has also been linked with Manchester United, was thought to be open to a move away in search of more regular first-team football, although the player himself has insisted that he is happy atCamp Nou.
Arsenal are also understood to be considering a late swoop for David Luiz from London rivals Chelsea, with the Brazilian reportedly trying to force the deal through before the transfer window closes.
Barney Corkhill
