Arsenal are one of four clubs who have enquired about Southampton midfielder Mario Lemina, according to reports in the UK.

Manchester United, Leicester City and Atalanta are also said to be keen on the 25-year-old, with the player having stated in recent days that he is open to leaving St Mary’s:

“I still have another three years of contract. But it is true that I do not rule out the possibility of seeing something else.”

“The last four months have not been easy for me, with my injury. The coach put his team together. I want to start afresh. So why not leave?”

Southampton signed Lemina from Juventus for £18m two summers ago, but despite the Gabonese star having three years to run on his current deal, the Saints are only looking to recoup the money they spent.

The midfielder was not included in the squad for the Saints’ pre-season training camp to Austria, and it appears he is deemed surplus to requirements by manager Ralph Hasenhuttl.

Lemina has only scored two goals and made two assists in 52 appearances for Southampton, and spent a significant amount of time out injured last season with an abdominal strain.

Considering he is a defensive midfielder by trade, it would be surprising if he were a transfer priority for the Gunners who are well stocked in that position.