'Been some talk...' - Transfer insider reacts as Arsenal eye 'world class' Raphinha alternative

Arsenal’s interest in Bayern Munich winger Serge Gnabry has been made ‘more intriguing’ by the player’s contract situation, claims transfer insider Dean Jones.

The former Gunner has only 12 months left on his contract with the German champions, and so far he has failed to commit his future to the Bundesliga outfit, opening up the possibility of a move away from the Allianz Arena this summer.

Bayern’s sporting director Hasan Salihamidžić has insisted that the club would love to keep hold of the 26-year-old: “We really want to keep him. We would love to extend with him. I think we showed him the necessary appreciation.”

However, with Gnabry’s future clearly uncertain, chief Bild journalist Christian Falk has now reported that Arsenal are interested in re-signing the Germany international.

Whilst Jones believes that a transfer will be difficult considering the Gunners missed out on Champions League football last season, he considers Gnabry’s contract situation a boost in Arsenal’s pursuit of the attacker.

Speaking with GiveMeSport, he claimed: “There has been some talk of Gnabry to Arsenal, and his contract situation has meant that’s more intriguing.

“I’m not sure it’s the level of club he would have in mind but let’s see if they can make inroads as a back-up plan.”

As Mikel Arteta’s side now look likely to miss out on Leeds United winger Raphinha, with the Brazilian reliably reported to be making the switch to Chelsea, the Gunners will need to look elsewhere if they want to sign a right-sided forward this summer.

Valued at £58.5m by Transfermarkt, the 26-year-old Gnabry has gone on to establish himself as one of the most exciting attackers in world football since leaving north London, bagging 64 goals and producing 40