Arsenal are attempting to seal a cut-price deal for Sevilla’s World Cup winner Steven Nzonzi.
The France defensive midfielder, 29, has a £30million release clause with the Spanish outfit.
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But new Gunners boss Unai Emery is aware that any further signings will have to be on the cheap after a busy window.
The Gunners have picked up five players so far this summer, splashing out close to £70m.
Nzonzi, 29, was a regular during Emery’s two seasons as Sevilla boss.
He has been a long-time target for the Gunners, who want to bolster their defensive set-up before their opener against Manchester City on August 12.
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The midfielder is currently under contract until 2020, but has attracted a lot of attention of late.
But Arsenal seems a more attractive prospect as there’s the opportunity to be reunited with his former Sevilla boss.
SunSport reported how during France’s World Cup campaign he spoke openly about wanting to be playing for a bigger club.
N’Zonzi has already had a taste of Premier League action, after signing with Stoke City in 2015, but wants to create a name for himself on the European stage.
The Spanish news agency EFE reported that it wasn’t N’Zonzi that made his intention known, but rather it was his father who informed Sevilla in writing that his son wants to leave.
Should N’Zonzi move to Arsenal, he would bring plenty of Europa League experience having won the tournament with Sevilla in 2016.