Arsenal in advanced talks to sign Ligue 1 centre-back

Arsenal are reportedly in advanced discussions with French side Saint-Etienne to secure the services of defender William Saliba.

The north London side have been in negotiations with the Ligue 1 side since the end of the season and Le 10 Sport that they have some progress towards signing the 18-year-old centre-back.

Unai Emery's side are seemingly prepared to match Saint-Etienne's £27m asking price for the defender but they are still aiming to solve other discrepancies in the proposed move.

Saint-Etienne are said to be keen on re-signing Saliba on loan shortly after an agreement is reached but the Gunners are unlikely to accept the proposal, given they are working on a limited budget which they are aiming to make full use of.

Aside from Arsenal, Manchester United are understood to be keeping a watch on the proceedings of the France youth international, and they could yet make a late approach to hijack the deal from the Gunners grasp.