Arsenal have stepped up their pursuit of Getafe centre-back Djene, according to Marca.

The Gunners have been tracking the 27-year-old for a long time, and it is believed they will make attempts to secure a deal for the defender this summer.

Reports in recent days have suggested that Arsenal manager Unai Emery is determined to land a top-class centre-back in light of the problems the club have faced at the back this season.

Tottenham’s Toby Alderweireld, Chelsea’s Kurt Zouma and Leicester’s Harry Maguire have all been mentioned but it seems Djene is the likeliest candidate at the moment.

The Togolese international has a €35m (£30m) release clause which could prove a sticking point. Multiple reports indicate that the Gunners’ transfer budget this summer is just £40m, with player sales the only way to add to the transfer kitty.

Considering the desperate need for a centre-half, Arsenal may consider shelling out on someone like Djene to reinforce an area that badly needs strengthening.