Cedric Soares has impressed Arsenal coaches with his pre-season form and is contention to start the opening game of the season at right-back, football.london understands.
The Portuguese defender found his game time limited towards the end of last season after initially impressing in an unorthodox left-back role as well as right back.
The news comes amid Hector Bellerin's desire to leave the club this summer. The Spaniard's representative is currently speaking with a number of teams in Italy and Spain, with Inter the frontrunners to land him right now.
Bellerin, who has two years remaining on his current contract, is keen on leaving north London after spending over a decade at the club, but Arsenal want to receive at least €20m for his services.
Many European teams are struggling to pay significant transfer fees this summer, but Bellerin's desire to play for in Italy may prove pivotal in negotiations over the coming weeks.
Arteta said at the end of last season that he expects the majority of Arsenal's transfer business to be done once Euro 2020 comes to an end.
Albert Sambi Lokonga and Nuno Tavares have already joined, while Ben White is also expected to complete his move imminently after Arsenal agreed a £50million fee with Brighton for the centre back.
