Arsenal enter race for Tottenham defensive target valued at €30m

Arsenal have joined London rivals Tottenham and Chelsea in the race for impressive Hellas Verona centre-back Marash Kumbulla, according to reports.

Kumbulla has been one of the standout defenders in Serie A this season, helping Verona climb into the top half in their first season back in the top flights.

The 20-year-old’s form has attracted a number of potential suitors, with reports earlier this month suggesting that Tottenham had lined him up as their replacement for Jan Vertonghen, who is set to become a free agent after a lengthy stay with the club.

Chelsea and Manchester United have also been linked with the defender, who has a €30m valuation – and now there are two more Premier League contenders for his signature.

Covering interest from Inter Milan, FCInterNews claim that Arsenal and Everton have now joined the queue of sides ready to battle for Kumbulla’s signature, and have even opened talks over his potential availability.

Arsenal are eager to sign a defensive reinforcement this summer, having added David Luiz from Chelsea last summer but still struggled at the back this season.

The Gunners have been linked with a high-profile move for Dayot Upamecano, who currently plays for RB Leipzig – another of the sides interested in Kumbulla – but they may be enticed to sign someone with a cheaper asking price.