Arsenal identify alternative transfer targets as negotiations with Valencia for Shkodran Mustafi hit a snag
Arsenal have identified two alternative centre-backs to target after transfer negotiations for Shkodran Mustafi appeared to have hit a snag.
Arsene Wenger is on the hunt for defensive reinforcements after captain Per Mertesacker and fellow centre-back Gabriel were both ruled out with injury for four months and six to eight weeks respectively.
German international Mustafi is the Gunners' priority but they are yet to agree on a price for the centre-back with Valencia, who are believed to value the 24-year-old at £30m.
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According to Sky Sports, Bayern Leverkusen's Turkish international Omer Toprak and Fenerbahce's Danish defencer Simon Kjaer have now been lined up as potential alternatives.
Both Kjaer and Toprak are 27-years-old and would likely command much smaller fees than Mustafi.
Arsenal named debutant Rob Holding, a 20-year-old signed from Bolton Wanderers this summer, and 21-year-old Calum Chambers at centre-back in the 4-3 drubbing to Liverpool in their season opener.