Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger is keeping a close eye on Manchester United defender Chris Smalling, according to a report in The Sun.
The newspaper claims that Smalling could be heading for the exit at Old Trafford as new centre-back Victor Lindelof prepares to finalise his move to the Red Devils.
The Sun report that United are confident in concluding the deal with the Benefica defender, which could see Smalling hit the sidelines to make way for the 22-year-old.
It is said that United manager Jose Mourinho thinks that the new Primiera Liga addition would create the perfect partnership with Eric Bailly and strengthen the team’s defence ready for the 2017/18 campaign.
However, Arsenal look likely to play a three-man backline throughout the next season after their success with the formation towards the end of the club’s 2016/17 campaign, and Wenger would need a new centre-back to broaden his defensive options.
With the Englishman’s future looking uncertain at Old Trafford, Arsenal continue to closely monitor the 27-year-old’s situation.
The report claims that Arsenal were linked with the United star a few years ago, and are tracking him again.
Smalling made a total of 36 appearances for Mourinho’s side last season, but was sidelined for 21 games owing to a series of injuries which included a foot injury back in October, and a knee injury later on in the season.
The English international has two years remaining on his contract.