Arsenal have reportedly identified Real Betis defender Aissa Mandi as a possible transfer target.
The Gunners are hoping to bolster their defensive options during the January window having been struck with a number of injuries at the back this term, including season-ending ones for both Rob Holding and Hector Bellerin.
El Desmarque reports that manager Unai Emery has now made Mandi one of his top priorities, having been impressed by his performances this season.
The 27-year-old has made 27 appearances across all competitions this season, including 20 in La Liga as Betis push for Europe once again.
However, a sticking point in negotiations could be a fee, with Arsenal only able to make loan signings this month and Betis unlikely to allow Mandi to leave unless they receive a significant sum.
The Algerian international is valued at around €30m (£26m), meaning that Arsenal may be forced to wait until the summer before opening talks.
Barney Corkhill
