Arsenal have reportedly made contact with Giannelli Imbula's father as they look to sign the midfielder from Marseille.
The 22-year-old has been linked with Italian rivals AC Milan and Inter Milan this summer.
Inter have signed Geoffrey Kondogbia from AS Monaco, reportedly beating Arsenal to his signature in the process.
The Gunners are said to have now turned their attention to Imbula, and are prepared to match any contract that he is offered by rival clubs.
According to Le10 Sport, Arsenal are looking to complete a £15.7m deal and have approached the Frenchman's father in an attempt to persuade him into a move to the Emirates Stadium.
The former Guingamp man made 38 appearances for Marseille last season.
