Insider claims Arsenal ‘very close’ to securing fourth signing

Arsenal are “very close” to securing the signing of defender Shkodran Mustafi from Valencia, according to Italian journalist Emanuele Giulianelli. 

The Gunners have been heavily linked with a bid to sign the Germany international in recent days following the injuries to Gabriel Paulista and Per Mertesacker. 

Arsene Wenger is thought to be keen to bolster his defensive options ahead of his side’s Premier League opener against Liverpool at The Emirates on Sunday afternoon. 

Reports in the British media this week have claimed that Arsenal have already agreed personal terms with the 24-year-old Germany international ahead of his proposed move to The Emirates. 

Now, Italian reporter Giulianelli says that the two clubs as still slightly apart in their valuation of the player. 

He tweeted: Mustafi: apparently Arsenal bid wasn't accepted! But very close agreement between clubs, still €3-5m apart. He has agreed personal terms.