Arsenal prioritise £35m-rated defensive transfer target as Fabio Vieira deal edges closer

Arsenal are set to be one of the busiest Premier League sides in the summer transfer window as they look to break into the top four next season.

Mikel Arteta's side finished fifth last term after being pipped to a Champions League qualification spot by north London rivals Tottenham. The likes of Gabriel Jesus, Raphinha, Youri Tielemans and Lisandro Martinez have been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates Stadium this summer.

Arsenal are eager to bolster key areas of the squad for next season whilst a number of players could follow Alexandre Lacazette out of the door. With that in mind, takes a look at the latest rumours from the club.

According to The Athletic, Arsenal have enquired for Ajax defender Lisandro Martinez, and he is now their top priority deal with Vieira's signing set to be announced in the coming days. Both Manchester United and Barcelona are rumoured to be interested in the Argentina international, but the Gunners have seemingly made the first move regarding a potential move for the defender.

The north Londoners have had an opening bid of £25million rejected by the Eredivisie champions but are confident of striking a deal with the Dutch outfit. Martinez's versatility is an appealing proposition for Arteta with the Argentina international being able to play at centre-back, left back and defensive midfield.

Arsenal have reportedly had an opening bid for Manchester City striker Gabriel Jesus rejected but remain confident of agreeing a deal and will step up their pursuit in the coming days. According to GOAL, Arsenal's opening bid in the region of £30million has been rejected by City.

Jesus has just one year left on his current deal in Manchester, but City value the Brazilian closer to £50million given