Arsenal told asking price for 'world class' international forward, he can join in January

Arsenal have been told the asking price to sign Borussia Monchengladbach star Marcus Thuram in January, according to a new report.

Thuram is currently involved at the World Cup in Qatar, with France having reached the final of the tournament.

The forward is yet to start for his nation, but has come off the bench on four occasions. He has one assist to his name, which he recorded during the 3-1 win over Poland in the last 16.

However, reports say that France boss Didier Deschamps has been utilising Thuram as a central striker in training, amid suggestions that Olivier Giroud is a doubt for the final.

Thuram could, therefore, get the nod to start the showpiece event in Qatar, even with Karim Benzema potentially being involved in his first game of the tournament after injury.

Thuram earned his World Cup call-up off the back of an excellent first half of the club season in the Bundesliga. He has smashed in 13 goals and provided four assists in just 17 appearances in all competitions, averaging a goal contribution per game.

His current deal at Monchengladbach expires next summer, meaning clubs have been circling with a view to signing him on a free transfer.

But new reports claim the German side are ready to sell one of their star players early in January - and he could represent a bargain.

Arsenal told Thuram asking price

One of the clubs reportedly interested in his services are Arsenal, who are currently on the lookout for a potential replacement for Gabriel Jesus while he recovers from knee surgery.

90min claim that Mikel Arteta's side have scouted the forward, and will battle Liverpool to secure his signature.

Thuram is the son of France legend Lilian Thuram, who was also of interest to the Gunners in 2004 during his playing career.

According to German outlet Bild, Gladbach will consider selling the forward in January if they receive bids of €12 million.

That would certainly represent an affordable outcome for the Gunners, who have a transfer budget of €120 million in January, as per reports in Italy.

Given that Thuram is just 25 years of age, and a senior international, he could also provide strong competition for Jesus when the Brazilian returns from injury.

The Frenchman is also versatile, and is capable of playing on the left side of attack.

In October, Wolfsburg sporting director Marcel Schafer described Thuram as a 'world class striker' and an 'exceptional player of the highest class' - and Arsenal would hope he can improve even more if he does make the move to the Emirates Stadium in January.