Arsenal are reportedly holding off making a bid for Nice midfielder Jean-Michael Seri until their Champions League qualifying campaign has come to a close.

That’s according to the Guardian’s Ed Aarons, who said on Twitter that the Gunners should reignite their interest if Nice fail to reach the group stages of the continental tournament.

Seri may stay at Nice for their Champions League campaign. The Ligue 1 side have Ajax currently standing in the way of the playoffs, having drawn 1-1 in the first leg of the third round.

Aarons also confirmed Seri has a release clause of €40m that would allow him to leave Nice if the asking price was met, something further confirmed by the club president.

Arsenal are believed to be keen on another midfielder this summer due to the uncertain future of so many of their existing players. Jack Wilshere returned from a season-long loan at Bournemouth but has been struggling with injuries and only has 12 months left on his deal.

Manager Arsene Wenger could be open to sell him ahead of the new season if reports are to be believed. Santi Cazorla is still recovering from a long-term injury and hasn’t played a game since October 2016. He’s a doubt to play a significant role next season.

And then there’s Mohamed Elneny who was available for sale for £10m, but turned down a move to Leicester City this summer after Arsenal accepted a bid for the Egyptian. As a result, there’s a place for Seri if the Londoners pay £36m.