Arsenal looking to agree deal for Manchester United defender?

Arsenal have reportedly joined the likes of Tottenham and AS Roma in the race to sign Chris Smalling from Manchester United this summer.

The England international is currently on loan with the Giallorossi in the Serie A where he has impressed with a number of standout displays.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, Roma are keen on signing Smalling on a permanent deal but they have been put off by United's £25m price tag.

The same outlet claims that the Gunners have joined the pursuit of the centre-back, who was previously on their radar when Louis van Gaal was the United manager.

Arsenal have a number of central defensive options but a few of those players are likely to be offloaded when the transfer window reopens in four months' time.

RB Leipzig's Dayot Upamecano has previously been earmarked as the prime target for the Gunners but it appears that Arteta favours a move for Smalling, who has vast Premier League experience.