Portuguese defender on the cusp of Arsenal transfer

Benfica defender Nuno Tavares has arrived in London ahead of his expected move to Arsenal, football.london reports.

The left-back has agreed to join the Gunners from the Portuguese outfit, and the deal will be made official soon.

He has already undergone his medical tests in Lisbon, and is expected to sign a five-year contract worth £60,000-a-week.

Tavares is likely to act as the back-up defender for Kieran Tierney, who has struggled with fitness concerns in the past.

Tierney is regarded as an undisputed starter, but the Gunners are keen to provide cover due to his previous niggles.

The Gunners are also close to landing the services of midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga from Belgian giants Anderlecht.

A deal worth 17 milion pounds has been finalised. The player is expected to arrive in the English capital over the next few days.

The Gunners are also interested in Brighton & Hove Albion defender Ben White, but have yet to strike an agreement.