Arsenal table opening offer for Mustafi

Arsenal have firmed their interest in Valencia's Shkodran Mustafi by lodging a formal bid for his signature. The German international has been strongly linked with the Gunners as they look to reinforce their central defensive department.

The Gunners are currently short in the heart of the defender with Gabriel and Per Mertesacker sidelined with a long-term injuries.

Arsene Wenger has been on the look out for a new centre-back in recent weeks, and according to The Sun, the Frenchman has opted to table a £25.9m offer for the World Cup winner.

Mustafi currently has a £42m escape clause in his contract, but Los Che are willing to settle for a £29m sum, which is still more than what the Gunners have offered.

The 24-year-old has recently captured interest from the likes of Liverpool and Chelsea, and this has urged Arsenal to lodge an attempt for his services.