Arsenal are interested in signing Juventus defender Daniele Rugani, according to the Express.

The newspaper reports that the Gunners are “seriously monitoring” the Italian’s situation at the Bianconeri, with the centre-back having barely featured in the first team this season.

However, Unai Emery’s side are not the only team keen on Rugani. Chelsea are believed to be the favourites for the 24-year-old’s signature.

The Blues reportedly tried to buy the centre-half in the summer only for the player to stay put in Italy.

Chelsea manager Maurizio Sarri is believed to be a big fan of Rugani after the pair worked together for two years at Empoli. Whether that would sway things in the Blues’ favour, it is not known.

Juventus are said to want £26m for the defender, and much may depend on how determined they are to keep the Italian international.

Reports earlier this month suggested that Rugani was on the verge of signing a contract extension with Juve but no official announcement has yet been made.

This campaign, the centre-back has made just two starts in the league; a stark contrast to last season when he was a regular first team player.