Arsenal open talks to sign Jerome Boateng from Bayern Munich

Arsenal have opened talks to sign Jerome Boateng from
Bayern Munich , according to reports in Germany.
The Gunners have stepped up their efforts to recruit a new
centre-back in the January transfer window as Calum
Chambers faces up to nine months out after he ruptured his
anterior cruciate ligament during the defeat to Chelsea on
Sunday.
Red Bull Leipzig’s Dayot Upamecano remains on Arsenal’s
radar after the Gunners failed with a £55 million bid for the
21-year-old in the summer transfer window .
But according to Sky Sports Germany, Arsenal are also
exploring a cheaper alternative in Boateng.

The report claims that the Gunners have entered discussions
with Bayern and initial talks have been made ahead of a
potential move this month.
It’s also claimed that Bayern are willing to sell Boateng but
are holding out for a €15 million (£12.75m) transfer fee.
The 31-year-old has made 15 appearances for Bayern this
season but his place in the side is under threat from
Benjamin Pavard and David Alaba, who has played more as a
central defender than a left-back this term.

Mikel Arteta, meanwhile, admits he his keen to strengthen
his defensive options following Chambers’ long-term injury.
‘My obligation is to give my opinion on the things we can
improve,’ Arteta said after Arsenal’s win over Manchester
United on Wednesday evening.
‘Obviously we have a bad injury with Calum a few days ago
that will change our plans at the back.
‘The reality is we will not be able to do much. I’m more
concerned about getting players back from injury and try to
improve the players I have here, get everybody on board and
understanding what we’re trying to do.
‘And if something extra comes up and we think it is the right
opportunity to improve what we have, then let’s do it.’