Arsenal are reportedly set to beat off competition from AC Milan to sign rising Bundesliga star Dayot Upamecano from RB Leipzig in a £50million deal.
The Gunners had attempted to capture the French centre-back over the summer but were put off by his £70m asking price.
But a report in Calciomercato claims that Unai Emery’s men could come back in for the player, with his release clause now reportedly at a lower figure.
The powerful centre-back is widely regarded as one of the hottest properties in the Bundesliga and has a list of admirers, including Serie A giants Milan.
But despite their interest, it’s the Gunners who appear to have moved into a commanding position to seal the 20-year-old’s signature.
With reports stating that Upamecano’s release clause lowers by £17m each year, Leipzig are almost certain to be interested in cashing in while the player’s stock remains high – allowing Arsenal to land the player for nearer to £50m.
Arsenal’s defence remains their weakest link, but with William Saliba expected to arrive back from his loan spell at Saint Etienne next summer – the Gunners could end up with a completely new centre-back partnership next season.