Arsenal are in contact with Cagliari for Nicolo Barella.

The Gunners have asked Cagliari sports chief Cristiano Giuntoli to keep them informed of Barella's situation.

Arsenal see the midfielder as a natural replacement for wantaway Welshman Aaron Ramsey, who is off contract in June.

Giuntoli is seeking €50m to sell Barella, who made his Italy debut this past week under coach Roberto Mancini.

Arsenal have received a boost this week with AC Milan striking terms for Flamengo attacker Lucas Paqueta, so knocking them out of the running for Barella.