Arsenal agree deal to sign new centre-back

Arsenal have reportedly reached an agreement to sign Omar Rekik from Hoffenheim ahead of the January transfer window.

The 18-year-old was expected to join the club earlier this summer, but a deal could not materialise before the transfer deadline.

Talks have since recommenced between the sides and Football.London reports that an agreement is in place for a winter transfer.

Rekik has yet to make his senior debut for the Bundesliga outfit, but he is likely to return to the club on loan for the second half of the season.

Gunners academy coach Per Mertesacker is understood to have played a key role in luring the left-sided centre-back.

Rekik, who is already capped with Tunisia, could compete with William Saliba for a starting spot in the long run.

Saliba was fancied to make his breakthrough this term, but Mikel Arteta has decided against playing him with the senior side.

Arteta believes the Frenchman is not yet ready for Premier League football and could be loaned out at the turn of the year.