Arsenal have reportedly made contact with Inter striker Mauro Icardi’s representatives to arrange a meeting in London next week.
With Arsene Wenger continuing to scour the transfer market in search of reinforcements this summer, it appears as though the he will consider the Argentine forward.
According to Sky Sport Italia expert Gianluca Di Marzio, the Premier League giants have enquired with Icardi’s wife and agent, Wanda Nara, and have looked to set up talks next week.
While the Nerazzurri remain keen to keep hold of the 23-year-old, it has become apparent in recent weeks that there is a possible desire within his camp to move on this summer.
Nara took to social media last week to suggest that troubles were brewing regarding a contract extension with Inter, which in turn meant that they could consider their options from around Europe.
As noted by Di Marzio, Napoli, Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid have all been linked with an interest in the former Sampdoria forward, and so if the request from Arsenal is genuine, then Wenger will certainly face significant competition for his signing.
Nevertheless, their request has seemingly been met with a positive response, as Nara is expected to meet with them and evaluate their offer, according to Di Marzio.
If there is a satisfactory proposal on the table, then perhaps Inter will consider it, although it could even spur them into action and secure the future of their captain.
Meanwhile, Arsenal have also been linked with a move for Napoli striker Gonzalo Higuain, offering £50m plus Olivier Giroud in exchange for last season’s Serie A top goalscorer, as noted by The Independent.
However, Icardi is not only expected to be a cheaper option, but he is also younger than his compatriot, and that could play a part in Arsenal’s decision if they make progress in their pursuit of the pair.