According to Il Resto del Carlino, Arsenal are now interested in signing Bologna defender Takehiro Tomiyasu, but it might be too late.
What’s the story?
Well, the Gunners are keen to sign the 22-year-old, who can operate at right-back or at centre-back.
West Ham and Everton are also said to be interested in the 23-cap Japan international, but it’s Tottenham who are in the lead.
Il Resto del Carlino say that Nuno Espírito Santo’s side are winning the race, although their €20 million (£17 million) bid is still not enough for Bologna.
The Italian news outlet add that Arsenal are negotiating with Inter Milan over Hector Bellerin.
If the Spaniard completes a move to the San Siro, it is said that Arsenal could sink the funds into bringing Tomiyasu to the Emirates Stadium.
However – as aforesaid – they will have to be very quick, as it might already be too late.
Takehiro Tomiyasu has Tottenham contract agreed
Arsenal will have to act fast, as the versatile defender has already agreed a provisional contract with Spurs.
Tomiyasu sounds keen to join Tottenham, and is presumably just waiting for Spurs and Bologna to shake hands on a fee for his signature.
The Fukuoka-born defender – who cost Bologna £7 million – was also the subject of a phone call from West Ham about his services.
Now, while Tottenham are winning the race, interest from their two London rivals should unsettle them.
Especially West Ham, who can offer Europa League football.
It would be best for Fabio Paratici to agree a fee as quickly as possible.
If Arsenal sell Bellerin and immediately meet Bologna’s asking price for Tomiyasu, it would be seriously embarrassing for Tottenham.
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