Arsenal now want to sign versatile £34m star, 25-year-old has made 6.8 recoveries/game | OneFootball

Arsenal are set for a busy summer transfer window with plenty of high-profile signings.

A new striker and a defensive midfielder are the top priorities, but Bild (page 14) claims the Gunners could enter the transfer market for a centre-back.

Arsenal are reportedly monitoring Borussia Dortmund star Nico Schlotterbeck, whose contract expires in June 2027.

Schlotterbeck has developed into one of the best central defenders in the Bundesliga, and Dortmund are seemingly desperate to keep him on a long-term basis.

The club are reportedly prepared to double his £4.2 million annual salary and could also hand him the captaincy ahead of midfielder Emre Can next season.

Dortmund are not close to agreeing terms with the German, but they may have to do so quickly with the increasing interest from European clubs.

Schlotterbeck speculation could be agent-driven

Arsenal have one of the best central defensive pairings in world football.

William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes have been exceptional in the heart of the backline. There is nothing to suggest that one of them could head for the exit door.

Schlotterbeck is undoubtedly a top-class centre-back. He has a 90 percent passing accuracy this term.

The left-footed star has averaged 6.8 recoveries and 3.3 clearances per league game. He has also won 62% of his duels and has the traits to be successful in the Premier League.

Jakub Kiwior could leave Arsenal, but it would be surprising if Schlotterbeck accepts a back-up role after becoming an undisputed starter at Dortmund.

Ben White, Jurrien Timber, Riccardo Calafiori and Takehiro Tomiyasu can also provide back-up if Saliba or Gabriel are unavailable or need rest.

Schlotterbeck can play as a left-back, but the Gunners are well-equipped in the position, with Myles Lewis-Skelly and Calafiori in the squad.

The speculation could be agent-driven to speed up contract talks with Dortmund.

Liverpool and Newcastle United are also interested in Schlotterbeck. They could stand a better chance of signing him if he opts for a new challenge.

Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com.