Arsenal transfer news: Chelsea and Man City more likely to clinch Jean-Michael Seri deal

After a dismal season, Chelsea are planning on overhauling their squad in the summer and a midfielder is on the radar with Danny Drinkwater failing to get a look-in.

Although there is a lingering uncertainty surrounding Antonio Conte’s future, the Blues want to build a squad capable of challengibng Manchester City for the title next season.

Reports last month indicated the west London outfit are considering a £30million offer for Seri, who shone for Nice.

Arsenal have also been tracking his progress and they are pondering a potential deal with Jack Wilshere yet to pen a contract extension.

Barcelona tried to land the 26-year-old - who is valued at £40m - last summer, but he pulled out a deal.

And now according to the London Evening Standard, Seri would be prepared to snub the Gunners to join one of their Premier League rivals.

The report goes on to suggest that Raul Sanllehi, Arsenal’s head of recruitment, could hold a key to a possible transfer.

Sanllehi is believed to be a big admirer of Seri, who was named in the 2017 Ligue 1 team of the season.

Ever since Patrick Vieira left Arsenal in 2005, the north London outfit have been crying out for a presence in the middle of the park.

But Arsene Wenger’s successor is expected to be given a £50m kitty in the summer, so will have to be disciplined with the acquistions he makes.