Arsenal in talks for Jose Gimenez

Arsenal have began negotiations with Atletico Madrid to sign Uruguayan defender Jose Gimenez this summer. The Gunners are looking to add a new centre-back to their ranks before the transfer deadline.

Gimenez has been a key player for the Spanish giants since his first-team debut in 2013.

According to The Mail, the Gunners have made an approach for the 21-year-old as they bid to strengthen their central defensive department.

The North London outfit are currently short in the heart of the defence with Gabriel and Per Mertesacker sidelined with long-term injuries.

The Uruguayan is rated in the £40m range, and is considered as the ideal option for the Gunners in the transfer window.

Arsenal have been strongly linked with Valencia's Shkodran Mustafi in recent weeks, but they are yet to make a formal offer for his services.