Arsenal in talks with Nice midfielder

Arsenal have reportedly held preliminary talks with the representative of Nice midfielder Jean Michael Seri ahead of a potential move for his signature in the summer.

The Ivorian footballer has been a key performer for the French outfit this season, who have managed to secure their Champions League status for the next campaign.

According to The Guardian, Seri's agent had been in London over the past week to hold initial discussions with Arsenal as well as bitter rivals Tottenham Hotspur.

It is added that the French club would be willing to settle on a £20m sum for his sale this summer with Paris Saint-Germain and Barcelona also in line to make an approach for the enforcer.

Seri currently has a £33m buy-out clause attached to his present which is only due to expire in the summer of 2019. He has taken over the role from former teammate Nampalys Mendy with much success, and his progress has certainly caught the attention of Gunners scouts.

In spite of this, the Ivorian could snub the chance of joining the Gunners in the summer, should he fail to receive the guarantee of a regular spot in the starting lineup next term.