Arsenal are reportedly contemplating whether to involve themselves in the race to sign Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot.
The France international has been a regular starter for the Turin-based side this campaign, making 16 appearances from the opening whistle in Serie A and the Champions League.
That is despite Rabiot being made available for transfer during the summer transfer window and a move to Manchester United only allegedly broke down due to his wage demands.
Nevertheless, with Juventus having not secured a renewal of the 27-year-old's contract since then, Rabiot has just over seven months remaining on his existing terms.
With no discussions expected to take place while he is at the World Cup with the defending champions, there is a realistic scenario where he could hold discussions with foreign clubs in January.
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According to Calciomercato, a number of Premier League clubs are monitoring the situation, including Arsenal.
With the Gunners sitting five points clear at the top of the standings, it has been claimed that Mikel Arteta will receive funds to strengthen his squad at the turn of the year.
Furthermore, the Spaniard has acknowledged that he wants to add to his current crop, recently telling reporters: "Of course we can improve the team, we will always be looking to do that as a club. I don't know [if we will be busy in January], this window is so unpredictable.
"Especially with the World Cup in the middle. We will have a look, we will try to get the squad stronger and we will be active because you don't know what's going to happen in that World Cup, but touch wood they will all be OK."
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The report suggests that Juventus are not prepared to go above a yearly wage of €7m (£6m), with Rabiot's camp seemingly demanding in the region of €10m (£8.6m).
With the prospect of a return to the Champions League next season, those kind of figures will realistically be considered to be acceptable by Arsenal if they decide to press forward with a proposal.
However, it is added that the likes of Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Rabiot's former club Paris Saint-Germain are also interested in his services.
Rabiot initially made 224 appearances for the French giants before opting to depart Parc des Princes on a free transfer in 2019.
More offers may arrive if Rabiot continues to enjoy a strong World Cup with a goal and an assist coming during France's 4-1 triumph over Australia earlier this week.
Darren Plant
