The Italian centre-back is currently undergoing a medical at Arsenal, after an agreement was reached between the Gunners and Bologna for a £42m fee.
According to Spanish outlet Sport, Arsenal’s attention is now focussed on bringing in Mikel Merino from Real Sociedad, with the Spaniard set to add more experience to the Arsenal midfield.
While Jorginho and Thomas Partey are both players Mikel Arteta has relied upon in the Premier League, it seems he wants a defensive midfielder who is slightly more dynamic, while still retaining the same on-the-ball qualities.
The report suggests that Arsenal will face competition from both Atletico Madrid and Barcelona, though Merino’s preference is to make a return to the Premier League.
