Arsenal are closing in on their third signing of the summer after reaching an agreement for Sampdoria midfielder Lucas Torreira, claims The Guardian.
The north London outfit will announce deals for defensive duo Sokratis and Stephan Lichtsteiner at the start of next month and are hoping to bolster their midfield options with the arrival of Torreira.
The Sampdoria ace has a €25m (£21.9m) release clause but Arsenal have agreed to pay a further €5m in order to beat off competition from Serie A giants Napoli.
Arsenal have discussed personal terms with Torreira’s representatives and are confident he will agree terms to a five-year deal.
Torreira has been included in Uruguay’s 23-man squad for the 2018 World Cup and hope will to impress if given the chance after developing into one of the brightest prospects in Serie A last season.
Jack Wilshere’s current Arsenal deal is due to expire this summer and Torreira’s arrival would raise further doubts about his future at the Emirates.
Emery is due for talks with Wilshere and the England international will leave if he is not offered assurances about regular playing time next season.
Only Jorginho (173) won possession in the middle third more times than Torreira (167) in Serie A last season.