Arsenal are set for a busy summer and the Gunners have had positive signs this week to suggest an exciting few months are on the way, as Arsene Wenger’s side have been linked with a wealth of top-class signings.

Leicester City ace Riyad Mahrez is one of those players said to be on Arsene Wenger’s short-list this summer and the manager himself has suggested that a move could be made from his side, when speaking exclusively to German outlet BeIN Sports.

Arsenal were linked with Mahrez’ services a year ago after his sensational campaign with the Foxes, helping Claudio Ranieri’s side win the Premier League title, but he opted to remain with the side for their campaign in the Champions League.

Following a disappointing season though, Mahrez is one of many Leicester stars who could be on the move over the course of the next few months- and Wenger’s comments suggest the Gunners could look to bring the Algerian ace to the Emirates Stadium.

“We have not made a bid, but personally, I like the player, yes. I think he made a huge impact when they won the championship.”

“Like at everybody else at Leicester, this season has been more challenging, but it doesn’t take away from his qualities. Have we made a bid for him? No. Not yet. No, we have not. When I say ‘not yet’ it means it could happen. It might not happen.”

Arsenal are seeking top-class additions this summer and Mahrez certainly fits that bill, although he’s crucially young enough to continue developing in North London to become an important player for the Gunners, as he’s 26.

If Arsenal manage to complete their much publicised squad overhaul you would think they have a very good chance of Europa League success as well as finishing in the top 4 of the Premier League. Odds on the Gunners winning the Premier League are looking pretty good at the moment and if you consider what Chelsea did last season after a mid-table finish the season before and what Leicester City did when they won the Premier League after finishing near the bottom of the table the season before then it might be well worth placing a bet on Arsenal.

Getting back to Mahrez, he may be seen as the ideal replacement for Alexis Sanchez, should the Chilean ace leave, but would also be a significant upgrade on the wing options Arsenal currently boast- and he could be developed into a wing-back.

Wenger’s search for top-quality additions this summer means Arsenal will likely have to pay a premium price to land their top targets and Mahrez would likely cost around £40m, which wouldn’t shatter the Gunners transfer budget.

The concern for Arsenal would be that Mahrez struggled to perform consistently last season for the Foxes, although he impressed in the Champions League, and many would consider the Algerian to be a downgrade on Alexis Sanchez.

It’s crucial that Arsenal complete incoming pieces of business before approving any major sales though so this is definitely a step in the right direction for Arsene Wenger’s side.