Transfer expert Graeme Bailey says that Arsenal could make an offer for Lille central midfielder Carlos Baleba this summer.

The Lowdown: Midfielders wanted

Arsenal want to sign midfielders this summer, with West Ham United’s Declan Rice being linked with an £100m move to the Emirates Stadium.

With Mohamed Elneny's long-term injury, and Albert Sambi Lokonga being allowed to join Crystal Palace on loan in the January transfer window, the Gunners look a little short in the middle of the park, and could do with strengthening in that area come the next window.

The Latest: Baleba interest

Writing for 90min, Bailey says that Arsenal have been scouting Baleba for a number of months ahead of a possible summer move, with a view to a potential offer.

However, they will face competition from AC Milan, Juventus, Nice, Monaco, Liverpool, Manchester United, Newcastle United, West Ham United and Leicester City for his signature.

Lille see Baleba as the next Amadou Onana, who they sold to Everton for £30m last summer, and value him at around the same price.

The Verdict: Get it done?

At just 19 years of age, Baleba is an exciting talent, and one that the Gunners could snap up now before his market value starts to rise.

He has already played 12 senior games for Lille so far this season, and ranks highly among his team-mates for average blocks, dribbles and long balls per match in Ligue 1 (WhoScored).

Presumably alongside a more experienced addition like Rice, Baleba would be the prefect signing to complement him and provide depth and a long-term option once he furthers his development.