Arsenal boss, Arsene Wenger has told scouts to keep tabs on Schalke’s Japanese international, Atsuto Uchida.
It is understood Wenger is an admirer of the player’s international experience and energy levels, as he considered bidding for the player last summer and in January.
Toulouse’s Aurier has been subject of heavy interest from Arsenal, but it seems the North London club are showing some resentment in a deal to bring the player to the Emirates.
But it is Uchida who has caught the eye of the Arsenal boss, along with Atletico Madrid’s Juanfran, who has impressed the manager after impressive performances in the Champions League this year.
Arsenal have been forced to widen their search for a new right-back as Bacary Sagna is set to leave the club for Manchester City for a reported £120,000 a week once he becomes a free agent in the summer.
By Ollie Brown