Arsenal have been informed that they must fork out at least £35 million during the summer if they wish to sign Benfica defender Ruben Dias.

The Gunners will need to find a replacement for German international Per Mertesacker during the summer as the veteran is due to hang up his boots.

Laurent Koscielny has also been plagued by injury problems during recent times and at the age of 33, his best days are now behind him.

Arsenal scouts have been spotted at the Estadio da Luz previously and it is believed that they were keeping tabs on the progress of Dias.

Record has claimed that Benfica could be tempted to listen to offers for the youngster if they are in the region of £35 million, but they will hold out for the players release clause of £52.5 million if a bidding war ensues.