Transfer Centre

Arsenal begin talks with Valencia over Shkodran Mustafi deal?

By Daniel Lewis, Senior Reporter | 31 July 2016

A report claims that Arsenal have stepped up their pursuit for Germany international defender Shkodran Mustafi by opening talks with Valencia over a possible £42m deal.

Arsenal have opened negotiations with Valencia over a deal to bring Shkodran Mustafi to the Emirates Stadium this summer, according to a report.

The Gunners are desperate to add a new defender to their ranks before the new Premier League campaign gets underway in two weeks' time.

Experienced centre-back Per Mertesacker is expected to miss the opening few months of the season, forcing Wenger to delve into the transfer market for an adequate replacement.

Having already been linked with a move for West Bromwich Albion man Jonny Evans, The Sun claims that Mustafi is also a target.

Arsenal are not believed to have made a solid bid for the 24-year-old Germany international, who is available for £42m, but talks are said to have now begun over a cut-price move.

As well as being without Mertesacker for the start of the season, Wenger has been unable to call on Gabriel during pre-season due to illness and Laurent Koscielny is still on holiday following his Euro 2016 exertions.