Arsenal have reportedly stepped up their pursuit of Roma defender, Kostas Manolas, according to the The Independent – who source reports from Greece.
The 24-year-old was linked with a move to the Gunners last summer, but Arsene Wenger was reluctant to get into a bidding frenzy with Roma.
Manolas joined the Italian outfit last season and has made an impressive start to life in Serie A, helping them to reach second in the division and secure Champions League football.
The Greek international made 30 appearances for Roma during the 2014/15 campaign, and is known for his ability to play a high line, something Arsenal have failed to pull off successfully in recent years.
Manolas plays as a central defender, which will provide some much-needed pressure on the likes of Mertesacker and Koscielny, who will know they aren’t guaranteed a starting place.
However, Manolas may have to be prepared to swap a regular spot on the pitch for one on the bench, much like Gabriel Paulista who has been used simply as back-up.
It isn’t the first time the Greek has been linked with a move to the Premier League, after Everton agreed a fee with his former side, AEK, back in 2012, but the player later declined the move as he wanted European football.
Manager Arsene Wenger could however have to fork out nearly £21million for the defender, as Roma are keen to double the amount they initially signed him for in 2014, £10.3million.
The Arsenal boss was recently linked with a number of defenders as he looks to add depth to his defensive options, so Manolas is no surprise to see mentioned in the media.
Fresh Arsenal reported yesterday that reports suggest a bid was being prepared to bring Faouzi Ghoulam to the Emirates, replacing Nacho Monreal at left-back in the process.
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However, Monreal has travelled with the 27-man squad out to Singapore, where the club will feature against Stoke City or Everton and a Singapore XI.
You can see the full list of players who have travelled to Asia right here.
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