JUVERNTUS right-back Stephan Lichsteiner could become new Arsenal chief Unai Emery’s first signing.
The 34-year-old, who is likely to skipper Switzerland at the World Cup, was reportedly close to joining Borussia Dortmund earlier this year.
And the Guardian say the Gunners are in talks over recruiting the former Lazio star on a free transfer next month.
Dortmund and Greece ace Sokratis Papastathopoulos, 29. is thought to be a priority target for Arsenal at centre-back.
But the Gunners are also keen on boosting their defensive options out wide.
Current right-back Hector Bellerin, 23 insists he wants to stay, despite interest from Juventus and former club Barcelona.
Nonetheless, Emery is likely to strengthen most ares in defence and midfield after Arsenal finished a tame sixth in the Premier League, 12 points off the top four.
Lichsteiner confirmed to Mediaset earlier this month he will be exiting Italy this summer.
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He said: “I’m playing in one of the biggest clubs in Europe and there’s always competition for places.
“But my future is going to be away from Turin. At the end of the season I’m leaving.
“I’ll play abroad next year but I’ve not signed anything yet.”
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Arsenal have also been closely linked today with RB Leipzig playmaker Emil Forsberg.
The Bundesliga giants rate their Sweden star, 26, at around £47million.
Juventus and Atletico Madrid are among other admirers not put off by that evaluation.
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