Arsenal are monitoring the form of Lyon midfielder Maxime Gonalons after recommendations from France-based scout Giles Grimandi.
The 23 year old was under the watchful eye of Gunners representatives in both legs of his sides Europa League defeat to Tottenham Hotspur, and was also watched in Saturday’s 3-1 win over Lorient.
It is understood that chief scout Steve Rowley will view the player in the forthcoming weeks, as the clubs interest in the player intensifies.
The report in the Metro states that Lyon value the player at around £12 million.
Long term Arsenal target David Villa has reportedly been told that he will not be kept at the club against his wishes, with a summer departure from the Nou Camp looking increasingly likely.
Barcelona vice-president Josep Maria Bartomeu told BTV that the Spanish international, who has made just 17 La Liga appearances this season will be allowed to leave if he wants to.
Bacary Sagna looks set to be fit in time for Sunday afternoon’s North London derby against Spurs at White Hart Lane.
The France right-back missed Saturday’s victory over Aston Villa with strained knee ligaments, though after returning to training, should be fit in time to start at the weekend.
Finally, a statue of Gunners legend Dennis Bergkamp is set to be erected outside the Emirates Stadium.
It is not known when the stone tribute, which shows the former number 10 controlling the ball in mid-air will be revealed, though it is sure to be welcomed by fans, some of which questioned his omission when a number of statues honouring fellow Gunners legends were installed in 2011.
