Arsenal have opened talks to sign Jerome Boateng from Bayern Munich, according to reports in Germany.
The Gunners have stepped up their efforts to recruit a new centre-back in the January transfer window as Callum Chambers faces up to nine months out after he ruptured his anterior cruciate ligament during the defeat to Chelsea on Sunday.
Red Bull Leipzig’s Dayot Upamecano remains on Arsenal’s radar after the Gunners failed with a £55 million bid for the 21-year-old in the summer transfer window.
But according to Sky Sports Germany, Arsenal are also exploring a cheaper alternative in Boateng.
The report claims that the Gunners have entered discussions with Bayern and initial talks have been made ahead of a potential move this month.
It’s also claimed that Bayern are willing to sell Boateng but are holding out for a €15 million (£12.75m) transfer fee.
The 31-year-old has made 15 appearances for Bayern this season but his place in the side is under threat from Benjamin Pavard and David Alaba, who has played more as a central defender than a left-back this term.
Mikel Arteta, meanwhile, admits he his keen to strengthen his defensive options following Chambers’ long-term injury.
‘My obligation is to give my opinion on the things we can improve,’ Arteta said after Arsenal’s win over Manchester United on Wednesday evening.
‘Obviously we have a bad injury with Calum a few days ago that will change our plans at the back.
‘The reality is we will not be able to do much. I’m more concerned about getting players back from injury and try to improve the players I have here, get everybody on board and understanding what we’re trying to do.
‘And if something extra comes up and we think it is the right opportunity to improve what we have, then let’s do it.’
