Aymeric Laporte is a French youth international who plays as a central defender for Spanish side Athletic Bilbao. The 19-year-old is one of La Liga’s most promising stars and is tipped to be a mainstay in the France squad for years to come.

German champions Bayern Munich are hot on his heels as Guardiola is a big fan of Laporte and has monitored him throughout the season. The former Barcelona manager feels he can challenge Dante and Boateng for a spot in the centre of defence, and he is also viewed as one for the future.

According to talkSPORT, Arsenal have reportedly entered the chase for Laporte, who also plays left-back. The Gunners might lose club captain Thomas Vermaelen as he seeks regular game time and Wenger could bring in Laporte as a possible replacement.

However, both clubs will have to fork out a spectacular sum for the teenager, who is valued in the region of £30 million by Bilbao. The defender is contracted until 2018 and Bilbao are known to play hard ball when it comes to selling their prized assets.