Arsenal have held talks with Nice Bosman prospect Malang Sarr.
The highly-rated 21-year-old is available on a free transfer after his deal with Nice ended this summer and Arsenal are one of several clubs chasing his signature.
Goal reports Arsenal have made contact with the player's representatives to express their interest but are yet to table a formal offer amid uncertainty over their financial situation.
The France Under-21 international is already in more advanced talks with other clubs with Serie A side Torino making a concerted effort to land their man.
Arsenal have plans to bring in another centre-back in the summer after sending Konstantinos Mavropanos out on loan to Stuttgart for another season.