Arsenal have their sights on Juventus star

Arsenal are exploring a loan deal for Juventus midfielder Arthur Melo, reputed journalist Fabrizio Romano claims.

The Gunners are desperate for a new signing in the centre of the park with Thomas Partey and Mohamed Elneny away on international duty.

Granit Xhaka is also sidelined with Covid-19 at the moment, and that leaves Albert Sambi Lokonga as the only senior central midfielder.

According to Romano, the Gunners have three players on their shortlist with one of those being Arthur, who is out-of-favour at Juventus.

The Brazil international is prepared to leave the Bianconeri as he looks to boost his World Cup selection prospects later this year.

The Gunners are mulling over a loan approach for the 25-year-old, but have yet to make contact with the Bianconeri for his services.

Aside from Arthur, the club have a keen interest in Lyon's Bruno Guimaraes, but the £40 million price tag remains a big stumbling block. 

Les Gones want most of the fee paid up front which does not appear feasible for the Gunners at the midway stage of the campaign.