BBC Sport reporter David Ornstein has revealed that Arsenal could make an approach to sign Adrien Rabiot at the conclusion of the ongoing campaign. The Frenchman had been touted as a probable target for Barcelona on a free transfer but the signing of Frenkie de Jong has seemingly ended their interest.

Speaking on Arsenal podcast Arsecast Extra, Ornstein has acknowledged that manager Unai Emery is after experienced players with whom he has previously worked. He added that this explains the transfer interest towards Paris Saint-Germain duo Christophe Nkunku and Rabiot with the latter’s contract due to expire at the end of the season.

He said: “I’m told Unai Emery likes experienced players, he likes to go with players he knows and trusts. That certainly explains the Nkunku interest, who he played far more than Thomas Tuchel has this season. And also [it explains] the reported interest, once again, in Adrien Rabiot who Arsenal were keen on during Arsene Wenger’s time with his links to PSG and the French game. It seemed he’d be signing for Barcelona [on a free] but they’ve signed a player for that midfield position, Frenkie de Jong. There are credible reports that Arsenal will come back in for Rabiot.”

“Arsenal are likely to require reinforcements during the next transfer window with Aaron Ramsey expected to leave the club“ on a Bosman while Mohamed Elneny and Mesut Ozil are also facing uncertain careers. Among those, “none have featured regularly“ from the starting lineup but Emery may nonetheless want competition for places with the departure of any first-team players.

The north London giants managed to pursue just one signing during the winter transfer window with Denis Suarez joining them on a short-term loan from Barcelona. The Spaniard is capable of playing across the attack and the Gunners have included the option to sign him permanently when the season comes to a close.