Jerome Boateng is in advanced discussions with Arsenal over a summer transfer, with Bayern Munich’s sporting director willing to sell, according to a report.

MUNICH, GERMANY - DECEMBER 14: Jerome Boateng of FC Bayern Muenchen runs with the ball during the Bundesliga match between FC Bayern Muenchen and SV Werder Bremen at Allianz Arena on December 14, 2019, in Munich, Germany. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Bongarts/Getty Images)
MUNICH, GERMANY: Jerome Boateng runs with the ball on December 14, 2019. (Photo by Alexander Hassenstein/Bongarts/Getty Images)

Soccer Link report that Arsenal are in advanced discussions with Boateng over a transfer. Bayern Munich director Hasan Salihamidžić wants to refresh their squad, and is willing to part with the 31-year-old as a result.

Boateng’s recent match against Chelsea helped to convince Arsenal he’s still capable against the top Premier League sides. The defender played 90 minutes at Stamford Bridge as the away side won 3-0.

Chelsea themselves could move for Boateng as well, but only if their first-choice option falls through. The German international only has a contract until 2021, so he’s unlikely to command a huge fee.

Christian Falk of BILD Sport previously claimed both Arsenal and Chelsea are after Boateng this summer. Sky Germany also listed the centre-back among four options on Arsenal’s shortlist.

Boateng is up to 24 competitive appearances for the season so far, helping Bayern to nine clean sheets. Six of those nine came after the turn of the year, marking a real upturn in form.

There are still valid concerns from fans about signing a player in his thirties with limited experience in England (Boateng made 24 appearances for Manchester City in 2010/11). It’s not impossible to see this transfer happening, but probably not as a priority.