Arsenal have held discussions over a possible move for Freiburg centre-back Caglar Soyuncu, a possible replacement of ageing Koscielny
The Turkey international has emerged as one of the most promising defenders in Europe this season and has drawn attention from both Manchester clubs, Liverpool, Chelsea and Roma over the past 12 months.
Arsenal head of recruitment Sven Mislintat is also well aware of Soyuncu’s progress and is weighing up a summer bid.
Freiburg are reluctant to sell though and that is driving up his valuation closer to the ÂŁ30million mark.
Freiburg fended off competition from Sevilla and Besiktas to sign Soyuncu from second division Altinordu for just ÂŁ2.4m in 2016 and, despite a difficult start, he has established himself as one of the most consistent performers in the Bundesliga.
Soyuncu is 6ft 2in tall, good on the ball, strong in the air, has pace and reads the game well.
He has already been compared by German media to a young Mats Hummels.
Arsenal scouts have watched him this season and were present again at Turkey’s 1-0 win over the Republic of Ireland last week where Soyuncu picked up his 13th cap.
Arsenal are in need of defensive reinforcements with Laurent Koscielny now 32 and Per Mertesacker due to retire.
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