Arsenal are allegedly considering their options amid links with 22-year-old central defender, Samuel Umtiti.

With Barcelona also said to be interested in the French defender who plays for Lyon, reports in Spain claim that Chelsea lead the way for the player’s signature after being the most pro-active in trying to land him.

Wenger, they claim, has been watching Umtiti for months and with his knowledge of the French market many were expecting an offer to arrive on the desk of Lyon’s management, but this has not materialised as of yet.

Chelsea have already been in touch with Umtiti’s agent as Roman Abramovich tries to ensure Antonio Conte has the defensive reinforcements needed for next season. Umtiti’s agent is his brother, Yannick.

Currently on international duty with the French, Umtiti is under contract with the Ligue 1 side until 2019 after signing a new deal last July. His current market value is said to be around £11.25m however it would like need a much larger bid to secure his signature.

Arsenal are expected to bring in defensive reinforcements this summer with Mathieu Debuchy leaving, Per Mertesacker falling out of favour with Le Boss and Gabriel giving everyone regular heart attacks.