Arsenal have tabled a £9.3million offer for Brentford's skipper Christian Norgaard. The experienced Bees midfielder has been identified as a cost-effective solution for the Gunners as they aim to strengthen their midfield.
Former Chelsea and Italy midfielder Jorginho has left on a free transfer to Flamengo, while the future of Thomas Partey remains uncertain. It seems increasingly likely that the Ghanaian international will leave, with his contract set to expire on June 30. As it stands, he is due to become a free agent and depart the Emirates after making 52 appearances under Mikel Arteta last season.
The Gunners are close to bringin in Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad, having agreed terms with the Basque club. The Spanish international is expected to join next week in a £55m deal, with Arsenal set to fork out more than his release clause so that they can pay in instalments.
However, they are seeking additional cover and see Norgaard, 31, as a potential leader and positive influence in the dressing room, much like Jorginho was, whilst also being a proven Premier League player - according to the Mirror.
The Brentford captain has been crucial for his side, helping them secure five consecutive seasons of Premier League football. He made 34 appearances in the Premier League under former head coach Thomas Frank last term, who has since moved to Tottenham to replace Ange Postecoglou.
Former Fiorentina midfielder Norgaard has also been a consistent figure for the Danish national team in recent seasons.
He still has two years left on his contract with Brentford, having penned a new deal in March, and turned down several Bosman offers as his family are comfortably settled in London.
However, it's understood that he is eager for a move to Arsenal and the opportunity to compete in the Champions League, with talks ongoing between the two clubs.
Norgaard is currently in Denmark, awaiting the birth of his child.