There seems one area of the Arsenal squad that Unai Emery is actively looking to rebuild - the defence. That has been further evident with the Gunners having sent scouts to watch RB Leipzig defender Dayot Upamecano.

The 20-year-old has impressed throughout this season in the Bundesliga and Arsenal manager Unai Emery feels the youngster could be a cheaper alternative to Barcelona's Samuel Umtiti.

Arsenal have been knocked back in their interest in Umtiti, who is keen to stay at the Nou Camp and see out the remaining four years of his contract.

Now Emery has been forced to look elsewhere for viable options and following the Gunners' failure to qualify for next season's Champions League, more affordable ones.

The Spanish boss sent scouts to watch Upamecano on Monday night, where he featured for France's under-21 side in Le Mans, playing over 70 minutes of their 3-0 win over Belgium.

The defender is expected to draw a fee of around £50 million. However, the German outfit have remained adamant that he is not for sale. He still has two years remaining on his contract.