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Report: Arsenal offered chance to sign World Cup winner but PL rivals are favourites

France's national football team players pose for a photo, back row (L-R) Tanguy Ndombele, Layvin Kurzawa, Benjamin Pavard, Moussa Sissoko, Steve Ma...
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According to a report from The Standard, Arsenal have been offered the chance to sign Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Alphonse Areola on loan this summer.

The Gunners are in a strong position in goal at the moment but that could act against them. Bernd Leno was incredible for them last season but his injury paved the way for Emiliano Martinez to make a name for himself.

The Argentine was arguably Arsenal’s best player following Leno’s injury and would like to stay as number one. That leaves Mikel Arteta with a big headache as he’ll struggle to keep both goalkeepers happy throughout the campaign.

Multiple clubs have reportedly approached Arsenal to see if they would allow Martinez to leave the club. Aston Villa seem the most interested at this stage, with Dean Smith’s side tabling a £15 million bid for the 28-year-old. (Mail)

Arsenal are holding out for more, though, and Villa are expected to make another offer for Martinez soon. If the Gunners let the Argentine leave, they will need to sign a replacement and a report has claimed they have been offered a chance to sign a World Cup winner.

Areola to replace Martinez?

Areola spent last season on loan at Real Madrid, where he played second fiddle to Thibaut Courtois. The Frenchman is on the lookout for a new club and the Gunners have been given the opportunity to sign him to replace Martinez.

Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images

The Frenchman is hugely experienced having played more than 200 games for club and country. Areola has won league titles in France and Spain and also has a World Cup winner’s medal despite not featuring in the competition.

Although Arsenal have been offered the chance to sign him, it is highly unlikely. Areola is leaving PSG for regular first team opportunities, something he won’t get at the Emirates as long as Leno is at the club.

The report claims Fulham are favourites to sign Areola at the moment. The Gunners could overtake their London rivals if they decide to make a move but are expected to look elsewhere if Martinez leaves.

Paris Saint-Germain’s French goalkeeper Alphonse Areola controls the ball during the UEFA Champions League football match between Paris Saint-Germain and Bayern Munich on September 27,… (FRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images)