Arsenal 'make opening offer for Manuel Locatelli'

Arsenal have reportedly made an opening offer for Sassuolo midfielder Manuel Locatelli.

The 23-year-old impressed for his Italian club during the 2020-21 campaign, scoring four times and providing three assists in 34 Serie A appearances.

The midfielder has also been in impressive form for Italy at Euro 2020, scoring twice in two appearances for his national side at this summer's competition.

Juventus continue to be strongly linked with Locatelli, but there is also thought to be strong interest from the Premier League in the shape of Arsenal.

According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Gunners have submitted an offer for the midfielder, as Mikel Arteta's side look to win the race for his signature ahead of next season.

Locatelli - also thought to be of interest to Paris Saint-Germain, Manchester City and Borussia Dortmund - recently said that he was ignoring the transfer speculation to focus on Euro 2020.