Arsenal want Real Sociedad's Robin Le Normand?

Arsenal are reportedly interested in signing Real Sociedad defender Robin Le Normand.

The Gunners are focused on their Premier League title bid, but transfer plans are already being drawn up ahead of next season, and strengthening their defence seems to be on the agenda.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta can currently call upon the likes of William Saliba, Gabriel Magalhaes, Rob Holding and Jakub Kiwior as his centre-back options.

With the Gunners set to return to the Champions League next season, they are keen to increase the quality of their squad.

According to reports in Spain, Arsenal have identified Le Normand as a potential candidate to bolster their defensive ranks.

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The report claims that Le Normand impressed Arsenal midfielder Martin Odegaard when the pair played together for Real Sociedad in the 2019-20 season.

Le Normand only signed a new contract with Real Sociedad last year, which is set to run until the summer of 2026.

If the Gunners decide to pursue a summer move then they will need to activate Le Normand's release clause, which is believed to be worth £53m.

The defender, who is eligible to represent France or Spain, has previously suggested that he is prepared to spend the rest of his career with Real Sociedad.

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However, if Imanol Alguacil's side fail to qualify for the Champions League then Le Normand may consider his options in the summer.

With nine games left to play in the La Liga season, Real Sociedad are sitting in fourth position with a three-point cushion over fifth-placed Real Betis.

Le Normand has been a key figure in the Real Sociedad backline this term, starting 24 of his 26 league appearances.

Since joining the Basque club in 2019, Le Normand has featured in 171 games across all competitions, chipping in with four goals and six assists.