Nicola Zalewski linked with surprise Arsenal move

Arsenal have made a late transfer window move to sign Poland international full-back Nicola Zalewski from AS Roma, as the Gunners seek alternatives to Jurrien Timber, who could miss the majority of the season having suffered an ACL injury. Nicola Zalewski has been impressive since emerging into the club's starting XI under Jose Mourinho.

However, the Tivoli-born youngster isn't going to be sold by Roma on the cheap, as the Serie A giants demand 30 million euros to consider a sale of the 21-year-old defender. Last season Zalewski played 33 Serie A games, scoring two goals, and backed that up with another 12 appearances in Europe. AS Roma reached the final of the Europa League but were ultimately unsuccessful.

Nicola Zalewski is an attacking defender, comfortable playing on either wing or in an attacking full-back position. This is what has caught the eye of Arsenal's director of football Edu and manager Mikel Arteta.

It is unclear if a transfer fee will be agreed in a hurry though, as Arsenal still need to sell a few other players before they consider making any further signings. Kieran Tierney is likely to leave the Emirates, and Nuno Tavares is still likely to depart Arsenal before the end of the transfer window.