Arsenal to push through deal for Aymeric Laporte

Arsenal will reportedly step up their pursuit for Athletic Bilbao defender Aymeric Laporte in the upcoming transfer window.

According to The Express, the Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has shown keen interest in signing up a new centre-back in the January transfer window, with German international Mats Hummels considered as his number one option.

However, it is believed that the North London outfit are unwilling to pay the £31.5m valuation for the World Cup winner, and will instead switch their focus to bring Laporte to the Emirates.

Wenger has kept a close eye on the 20-year-old in recent weeks, and is likely to make a tempting offer to lure the French defender from the Basque side in the New Year.

Laporte has made 14 appearances for his club this season.