Arsenal are taking ‘concrete steps’ to sign Fenerbahce defender Ferdi Kadioglu this summer, according to Turkish outlet Milliyet.
The Gunners have been heavily linked with the Turkey international over recent weeks and discussions were underway over personal terms.
Milliyet (page 16) now say there is an agreement with the full-back and his agent, and the Gunners will soon contact Fenerbahce to negotiate a transfer fee.
Arsenal will need to pay at least £17 million to sign Kadioglou. However, Takvim recently suggested the Yellow Canaries want £26m for him.
Kadioglu could replace Zinchenko at Arsenal
The 24-year-old started his career as an attacking midfielder and a right winger before moving into the right-back role. He has since established himself as a left-back.
The right-footed ace has impressed with his ability to invert and make line-breaking passes. He has managed eight goal contributions from 42 appearances at left-back this term.
Kadioglu has also caught the eye with his defensive displays. He has won six duels per game alongside two tackles and almost seven recoveries. He has also won nearly two-thirds of his dribbles.
The Turkish star would provide the perfect balance in attack and defence at left-back for Arsenal. Oleksandr Zinchenko could be the player to make way for his arrival at the club.
The Ukrainian had a difficult second half of the season. He was the third-choice left-back behind Takehiro Tomiyasu and Jakub Kiwior.
His performances were below-par compared to his debut campaign. The 27-year-old, who was once a favourite under manager Mikel Arteta, could be sold this summer.
Jurrien Timber, who was injured for most of the season, can also be deployed in the role if required.
Stats from Transfermarkt.com & Sofascore.com.
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