ARSENAL are exploring the option of recalling central defender William Saliba back from his loan spell at Saint-Etienne.
The Gunners signed the 18-year-old French prospect in the summer for 27million but immediately loaned him back to the club for the season.
Saliba has played seven times this campaign, five in Ligue 1 and twice in the Europa League.
The Mirror report how boss Mikel Arteta is ready to try and lure him back to North London in a bid to solve their defensive crisis.
Arteta was dealt another huge blow on Sunday when Calum Chambers limped off with what appears to be a serious knee injury in the win over Chelsea.
Sokratis and Rob Holding have also had spells on the sideline meaning he had no option but to play Shkodran Mustafi against the Blues.
The German’s defensive frailties were exposed after he was turned by Tammy Abraham to secure Chelsea’s late winner.
Bolstering Arsenal’s leaky defence remains Arteta’s main priority after conceding 30 goals in 20 matches – the joint worst in the top 12.
The Gunners are just one of three clubs ready to battle it out for RB Leipzig centre-back Dayot Upamecano.
TottenhamandManchester City have also expressed interest in landing the 21-year-old talent in a deal worth 50million in January.
Upamecano has featured 13 times in the league this season and five in the Champions League.
