Arsenal to trigger buy-out clause of French defender?

Arsenal are reportedly monitoring the progress of highly-rated French defender Aymeric Laporte, with a view to a January offer for his services.

The Gunners boss Arsene Wenger is understood to be keen on signing a top-class centre-back in the upcoming transfer window, and considers the Atletic Bilbao man as his number one target.

According to CalcioMercato, Laporte has been tracked by the Gunners scouts over the past few months, and Wenger is keen on triggering the 20-year-old's release clause of around £34million in order to seal his signature in the New Year.

Arsenal are currently fifth in the Premier League standings.