Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger is set to swoop for Fulham's impressive young centre-back, Chris Smalling , according to the Daily Mirror.
The England under-21 international has made a rapid rise through the ranks at Craven Cottage since moving from non-league Maidstone United in 2008. Having made his first team debut towards the back end of last season, he has made 9 first team appearances for Fulham, which include European experience in the Europa League.
Arsenal boss Wenger has been impressed by the elegant 20 year-old and reportedly sees him as a long-term prospect for the Gunners. Although Sol Campbell re-signed at Arsenal last week, he will provide only short-term cover for first choice centre-back pairing Thomas Vermaelen and William Gallas .
Although the Daily Mirror estimates that Smalling will cost Arsenal £7million, Wenger is prepared to meet the cost of bringing the 6ft 4in youngster to the Emirates Stadium. Smalling would of course be eligible for Champions League action if needed.