Arsenal prepared to trigger release clause of Serie A star?

Arsenal are reportedly willing to trigger the £31m release clause of Roma's Kostas Manolas as they aim to bolster the central defensive department.

The north London side finished a disappointing fifth in the league during Unai Emery's first season in charge and the Spaniard is likely to improve the backline during the summer.

According to Il Messaggero, the Gunners have been keeping a close watch on the proceedings of Manolas, and they could be prepared to activate the £31m release clause in his contract to pursue his services.

The Greece international has been regularly touted to leave the Giallorossi in the past 18 months and the Gunners appear keen on uniting him with compatriot Sokratis Papastathopoulos in the club's defence next term.

Aside from Arsenal, Manchester United have also been linked with the signature of the former Olympiacos man, but the Gunners could have the edge, should they qualify for next season's Champions League.

Emery's side are scheduled to face Chelsea in this month's Europa League final and a victory would assure them of a spot in the elite competition next season.