Arsenal 'close in on Gremio defender Walter Kannemann'

Arsenal are on course to completing a deal for Gremio defender Walter Kannemann, according to a report.

The Gunners are believed to have tabled a £10.5m offer for the 28-year-old earlier this week in the hope of beating Italian side Sampdoria to his signature.

Calciomercato suggests that Arsenal remain hopeful of getting a transfer over the line for Kannemann, who is considered one of the best defenders in South American football.

Unai Emery may need to bolster his side on a budget, depending on the outcome of Arsenal's Europa League final clash with Chelsea later this month, and the Argentina international is considered good value for money.

Kannemann has spent the past three years in Brazil with Gremio, making 129 appearances for the club.