Arsenal are making a shock move to bring Flamengo defender Pablo Mari back to England.

The former Manchester City stopper only moved to Fla last year, but enjoyed a career best season under coach Jorge Jesus. Mari won the Brasileirao title and Copa Libertadores, was named in the team of the year and won the championship's defender of the year award.

The Spaniard also helped Fla to the Club World Cup final, where they were beaten by Liverpool in Qatar last month.

O Jogo says local media sources report Arsenal are in contact with Fla about bringing Mari back to England this month. The deal is being drived by Gunners football chief Edu, who has good ties with Fla.

For his part, however, Mari will need some convincing after the best year of his professional life.