Arsenal keen to sign Manchester United defender Chris Smalling?

Manchester United defender Chris Smalling has reportedly emerged as a transfer target for Arsenal.

Smalling has not always found himself as a first-team regular under Jose Mourinho, but the England international has been handed 24 starts in all competitions this season.

The 28-year-old has proven to be valuable backup to the likes of Eric Bailly and Phil Jones but according to The Gambling Times, Arsenal are interested in signing the player in January.

The report claims that the Gunners asked about Smalling during negotiations over the Alexis Sanchez deal, but were told that the centre-back was not for sale.

However, it appears that Arsene Wenger may be prepared to return with an offer before the end of the month in a bid to strengthen his much-criticised backline.

West Bromwich Albion defender Jonny Evans has also been linked with a switch to the Emirates Stadium.