Arsenal have reportedly moved to the brink of announcing the signing of Saint-Etienne defender William Saliba.

The Gunners have long been linked with an approach for the youngster, who impressed during his breakthrough campaign in Ligue 1.

There have been claims that Tottenham Hotspur are monitoring the situation as Mauricio Pochettino contemplates strengthening his squad with the addition of the Frenchman.

However, according to football.london, a deal is in place for Saliba to make the switch to the Emirates Stadium for a fee of £27m.

The report acknowledges that the prospect will immediately be loaned back to Saint-Etienne, where he will continue his development for another 12 months.

Arsenal have been tipped to announce the transfer in the coming days, providing that Saliba passes a medical.