Arsenal ready to move for Juventus defender

Arsenal have joined the long line of clubs ready to make an offer to sign Juventus defender Daniele Rugani, according to reports in Italy.

Transfer guru Gianluca Di Marzio last night reported that Arsenal are considering a swoop for the 21-year-old Juventus centre-back, with the likes of Villarreal and Napoli also waiting in the wings should the Bianconeri decide to sell the young Italian.

Arsenal have already strengthened their midfield this summer with the £30 million capture of Granit Xhaka from Bundesliga side Borussia Monchengladbach. The Gunners have also made plain their interest in bolstering their attacking options, with a move for Leicester City striker Jamie Vardy having broken down at an advanced stage, and rumours of a bid for Gonzalo Higuaín gathering pace.

But it now seems that Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is also keen to strengthen his defence, as he searches for a top class partner for French centre-half Laurent Koscielny, with Per Mertesacker lacking pace and Brazilian defender Gabriel Paulista a strong back up option, but lacking the quality to be a first team regular.

Rugani found opportunities hard to come by in Turin last season, with Juventus having an established back three of Leonardo Bonucci, Andrea Barzagli and Giorgio Chiellini.

And the youngster could be further down the pecking order next season with the Old Lady having signed Mehdi Benatia from Bayern Munich.

But Juventus are desperate to hang onto Rugani, who impressed while on loan at Empoli the season before last.