Gunners trained on a trio of deals?

Arsenal, who are 5/1 to win the Premier League, are reportedly close to a deal for Olympiakos centre back Kostas Manolas. The Greek defender is rumoured to be undergoing a medical with the London giants, and could cost Arsene Wenger a fee of around £8m.

Manolas would join the Emirates outfit as a replacement for former skipper Thomas Vermaelen, who left Arsenal for Barcelona this summer, following the loss of his first-team place.

Wenger recently spoke of his need for a new centre half, stating: “Vermaelen behaved outstandingly last year, I am grateful for him and I wish him very well.

“If I can find another centre back I will do it.”

The Gunners have apparently battled off interest from Italian champions Juventus to lead the chase for Manolas, as they continue to bolster their backline, despite the arrivals of right back Mathieu Debuchy and adaptable Calum Chambers.

It is unlikely Manolas, still just 23, would immediately dislodge one of defensive duo Laurent Koscielny or Per Mertesacker, who has just signed a new contract at the club, but he would provide valuable back up. His arrival could also allow Chambers to plug other areas of the squad, with his versatility meaning he can be also be deployed as a full back or defensive midfielder.

Greek international Manolas, nephew of legend Stelios, has 13 caps for his country and was a key component in the Pirate Ship’s heroic World Cup rearguard. The youngster also already has significant top flight domestic experience, having made 66 league appearances for AEK Athens, before switching to current side Olympiakos in 2012.

Also of apparent interest to Arsenal boss Wenger, is precocious PSG starlet Adrien Rabiot. The dynamic 19-year-old has long been reported to be on Chelsea’s radar, but it appears the Gunners have emerged as favourites for the Frenchman’s signature.

Long rumoured to be in the market for a defensive midfielder, Rabiot, who can also operate in a more advanced and creative role, could be an ideal option for Arsenal. Wenger is believed to be keen on converting the youngster into an anchor, and could poach the PSG product for as little as £5.6m.