Arsenal are reportedly keen on signing Monaco defender Axel Disasi this summer - over three years since they first expressed interest in the France international.
Disasi, who has received four caps for his country, stands at 6ft 3in and is strong both in the air and physicality.
The 25-year-old is capable of a range of passes, and was named as part of France's World Cup squad to travel to Qatar.
Advert
He made three appearances at the tournament, appearing as a substitute in the final against Argentina.
The defender is rarely injured, and played in all bar one of Monaco's 38 Ligue 1 games last season.
His performances have attracted interest from Manchester United, who have identified him as an option to fill their left-sided centre-back slot.
But improving the defence has not been a priority for manager Erik ten Hag this summer, with United signing midfielder Mason Mount and goalkeeper Andre Onana. They are now preparing a bid for Atalanta striker Rasmus Hojlund, as per Fabrizio Romano.
According to Sky Sports Germany's Florian Plettenberg, Monaco want around €45 million to sell the defender - with United and Newcastle interested.
Advert
But The Sun claim Arsenal are still in the race - and could finally complete a long-standing transfer pursuit.
Arsenal could finally sign Monaco star this summer
As per Goal, Arsenal initially made contact with Disasi's former club, Reims, over a potential transfer in March 2020.
At that point, his value was believed to be around €15 million, although his strong performances after signing for Monaco have pushed that fee up.
Advert
If the Gunners do sign Disasi, he would likely compete with Gabriel Magalhaes and Jakub Kiwior for a spot on the left side of Arsenal's defence.
That could mean a defensive departure due to the amount of options Mikel Arteta would have at his disposal, although Disasi can also play at left back if required and may be an alternative to Kieran Tierney if the Scot leaves the club.
And a hijack of a potential United signing would prove once again why Arsenal are a force to be reckoned with in the transfer market.
Topics: Arsenal, Manchester United, Football, Transfers
Ryan Smart