Arsenal transfer news: Gunners 'on the verge' of signing Sampdoria's Lucas Torreira

The defensive midfielder has been on the club's radar for a number of weeks, with Napoli also vying for the 22-year-old's signature

Talk of a deal had went cold since the start of June, with Arsenal ready to switch their attention elsewhere.

But according to Italian news agency, ANSA, Torreira's move is now close to completion thanks to Sampdoria.

The Serie A outfit have secured the signature of Lokomotiv Zagreb's midfielder Lovro Majer, meaning Torreira is now free to leave this summer.

The Uruguayan has a €25m (£22m) release clause at Sampdoria, which must be paid in full up until 60 days after the transfer is confirmed.

However, reports suggest Arsenal are looking to avoid paying the fee up front.

The Gunners are willing to pay €30m (26m) in order to split the transfer sum into instalments over a period of years.

As mentioned, Napoli are also chasing Torreira this summer.

Carlo Ancelotti sees the midfielder as an ideal replacement for Jorginho, who is expected to join Manchester City in the coming weeks.

Arsenal have already secured the signing of Juventus full-back Stephan Lichtsteiner.

And Barcelona youngster Joel Lopez has chosen a move to north London over Liverpool.