Arsenal have joined the interest for Cagliari attacker Nicolo Barella.

Gazzetta dello Sport says the Gunners sent scouts to watch Barella score his first goal for Italy against Finland on Saturday.

The 22-year-old gave Italy a flying start at the Friuli Stadium by opening the scoring in the seventh minute.

And Arsenal are ready to pip Chelsea to the midfielder's signature.

Barella's price-tag is reported to be in the region of £39-43million and president Tommaso Giulini insists it could now rise after his recent performances.

"Maybe it'll take more, seeing as next year it is his beloved Cagliari's Centenary," he said.