London Football News

Man Utd close to beating Arsenal to signing of Belgium star

Arsenal look set to miss out on the signing of Thomas Meunier despite Unai Emery’s attempts to persuade the Belgium defender to move to the Emirates Stadium.

Manchester United boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer is keen to sign Meunier, 27, from Paris St-Germain.

And reports in the player’s native Belgium suggest Meunier, a United fan as a boy, would be keen to move to Old Trafford.

Gunners boss Emery, who worked with Meunier while PSG boss, is said to have contacted him in an attempt to convince him to move to north London.

But United are believed to be in advanced talks over a £22m deal, leaving Arsenal to look elsewhere.

United have targeted Meunier after Crystal Palace made it clear they would not sell Aaron Wan-Bissaka on the cheap.

Young right-back Wan-Bissaka has been outstanding for the Eagles and has been linked with several top clubs, including Chelsea.

Meanwhile, one player who could be on his way to Arsenal is Basel’s Colombia defender Eder Balanta.

The Sunday Mirror say Emery has been offered the chance to sign Balanta, 26, for around £4m.

Balanta, who has year remaining on his contract at Basel, can play as a central defender or left-back.




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