Arsenal ‘make £25m approach for Colombian striker Zapata’

Duvan Zapata: In action against Arsenal in 2013

Duvan Zapata: In action against Arsenal in 2013

Arsenal have made an offer  – believed to be in the region of £25million – for Udinese’s on-loan striker Duvan Zapata, according to club president Franco Soldati.

The 25-year-old Colombian is midway through a two-year loan from Napoli and scored eight goals in 25 Serie A appearances during an injury-hit season.

The Gunners are believed to be interested in strengthening their attack after it emerged that Danny Welbeck is likely to face around nine months on the sidelines with a knee injury, and Udinese claim Arsene Wenger’s side have shown an interest in their striker.

“There is a clause that allows Napoli to recall him early from the two-year loan,” Soldati told Radio Kiss Kiss.

“He is very happy in Udine, his agent said that too and I hope he can remain with our jersey.

“He also received many offers from abroad, including from Arsenal. However, first we want coach Beppe Iachini to get to know the team so they can make shared decisions.”