Transfer Centre

Arsenal 'reignite interest in Alban Lafont'

By Barney Corkhill, Editor | 12 March 2018

Arsenal reportedly revive their interest in signing 19-year-old Toulouse goalkeeper Alban Lafont, although they could face competition for his signature from Napoli.

Arsenal have reportedly revived their interest in signing Toulouse goalkeeper Alban Lafont this summer.

The Gunners were linked with the 19-year-old shot-stopper during last year's summer transfer window and are understood to have been monitoring his progress in Ligue 1 throughout the current campaign.

Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has reportedly identified Lafont as an ideal long-term replacement for Petr Cech, whose recent performances have been questioned following a string of errors.

However, L'Equipe reports that Arsenal will face competition for the youngster from Napoli, who are currently thought to be leading the race for his signature.

Current Napoli number one Pepe Reina is expected to leave the club on a free transfer at the end of the season, and the Serie A title challengers would be able to offer Lafont the prospect of Champions League football - something Arsenal are likely to miss out on.

Lafont is the youngest goalkeeper to have ever played in Ligue 1 and has gone on to make almost 100 senior appearances for Toulouse, including 33 in all competitions so far this season.