Arsenal are very interested, but Barcelona have yet to decide how much it will take for them to part with France international Samuel Umtiti.
The Gunners think they have a chance to spring a surprise and sign the World Cup winning centre-back.
They feel the club's good relationship with the La Liga leaders could help swing things in their favour should they be willing to sell.
Umtiti only signed a new contract in June - and if what's rumoured is correct, it includes a release clause of a staggering £430million.
But there are claims in Spain that the Catalan giants would be willing to part with him as they attempt to lure Ajax centre-back Matthijs de Ligt to the Camp Nou.
Arsenal transfer news: The 3 issues Gunners face in Samuel Umtiti pursuit
Barca, though, have yet to name their price - and may not be willing to talk until the summer.
They are waiting to see what kind of clubs show interest in the centre-back before deciding how much they want, it has been claimed.
Sceptics say a knee injury is the reason why Barca will be willing open to the 25-year-old leaving.
The defender has played only ten games this season but that hasn't put Arsenal off.
Meanwhile the Gunners reportedly have an agreement in place to sign wonderkid Gabriel Martinelli.
Arsenal legend Thierry Henry set for return to dug out following Monaco axe
The 17-year-old, who had a trial with Manchester United in 2017, has been watched by some of Europe's top clubs.
Matinelli currently plies his trade with Brazilian outfit Ituano. Yahoo in Brazil reports the Gunners have reached a verbal agreement and will pay around £5m for the striker.
It is suggested the move will be made official within the next few weeks with Arsenal waiting for Martinelli to obtain an Italian passport.
The 17-year-old winger has netted 10 times for the first team at his hometown club in Sao Paulo.
Arsenal aren't planning on trying to keep Denis Suarez after he failed to break into the team following his much-anticipated loan move from Barcelona .
