Arsenal keen on landing Ligue 1 midfielder?

Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta is reportedly keen on landing RC Lens midfielder Cheick Doucoure in the upcoming transfer window.

Arteta will be backed with significant funds over the summer despite the fact that the Gunners failed to qualify for the Champions League.

A new striker could be the priority for the Gunners boss, but he is also said to be eyeing a defensive midfielder and left-back.

For the former of those roles, Doucoure has now emerged as an option after a top season with Lens in the French top-flight.

The 22-year-old was a key player for the Ligue 1 outfit last term as they finished an impressive seventh in the standings. 

The Mali international averaged over two tackles per game, and his defensive qualities seem to have caught Arteta's attention.

Lens are having financial concerns at the moment, and The Mirror reports that he could be prised away for around £18 million.

Brighton, Wolves and Crystal Palace are also keen on his services.