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Report: Arsenal considering shock swoop for Manchester United’s Chris Smalling

Manchester United's Chris Smalling in action with Ajax's Bertrand Traore (REUTERS)
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The Manchester United defender would be a great addition to the Arsenal squad.

Manchester United's Chris Smalling in action with Stoke City's Xherdan ShaqiriManchester United’s Chris Smalling in action

An exclusive report from the Daily Express this morning claims that the Gunners are exploring the possibility of signing Red Devils centre-back Chris Smalling this summer.

Arsene Wenger is thought to have well in excess of £100 million at his disposal, and the Frenchman is keen to bolster his defensive options at Arsenal, in an attempt to guide his side to their first Premier League title since 2004.

And the Express believe that the 27-year-old England international is one of Wenger’s key targets this summer, although there are plenty of other clubs interested in obtaining his signature, including the likes of Everton, West Brom and Newcastle.

The 6ft 4in centre-back would bring a certain level of authority to the Gunners’ back-line – something that they are desperately in need of, especially with Laurent Koscielny due to turn 32 in September.

Manchester United's Chris Smalling in action with Fenerbahce's Robin van PersieManchester United’s Chris Smalling in action

A report from the Telegraph claims that Jose Mourinho is willing to sanction Smalling’s exit for as little as £15 million, which would represent fantastic value for Arsenal, but whether the Portuguese would allow the 27-year-old to join one of United’s direct rivals is doubtful to say the least.

If Wenger can tempt Mourinho into selling him to the Gunners, however, his arrival at the Emirates could turn out to be a pivotal signing for Arsenal, as far as their title hopes are concerned.

Chelsea's Diego Costa in action with Manchester United's Chris SmallingManchester United’s Chris Smalling in action