Arsenal to offload central defensive duo?

Arsenal could reportedly sanction the exits of Shkodran Mustafi and Sokratis Papastathopoulos when the transfer window reopens.

The north London side are likely to work on a limited budget at the end of the season and manager Mikel Arteta will have to recoup additional funds from the sale of unwanted players.

According to The Athletic, the Spaniard is willing to part ways with the central defensive duo of Mustafi and Sokratis whose contracts expire at the end of next season.

Mustafi has managed to redeem himself with solid performances under the guidance of Arteta but his consistency over the course of the season remains questionable.

William Saliba is expected to feature for the club next season after his loan contract with Saint-Etienne expires. He could be partnered by Pablo Mari, whose loan deal from Flamengo is expected to be made permanent.

Still, Arteta is reported to be eyeing another central defender ahead of next season. Reims' Axel Disasi has been fancied to join them in a cut-price £13m deal.