Arsenal are ready to meet the asking price demanded by Manchester United for Chris Smalling.

Gazzetta dello Sport says Arsenal are happy to pay United's £25million asking price for centre back Smalling, who is currently on loan to Serie A side Roma.

Tottenham boss Jose Mourinho was weighing up a move for his former ace, who he managed while in charge of the Old Trafford outfit.

Roma are keen to make the move permanent.

But they are struggling to match the £25m price tag and are hoping to negotiate a lower fee.

However, Arsenal are apparently happy to spend that amount as Mikel Arteta looks to stamp his mark on the team this summer.