Arsenal are preparing to launch an huge £44 million bid for former Newcastle United flop Florian Thauvin, according to reports.

Thauvin spent just half-a-season in English football with the Magpies in 2015/16, however failed to make any sort of impact, managing just one goal – which came against League Two side Northampton Town in the League Cup – before returning to France.

However since re-joining Marseille in January of 2016, Thauvin has discovered career best form, scoring 45 goals in all competitions over the past two-and-half seasons.

Twenty six of those came last term, and Thauvin also registered 13 assists as Marseille reached the Europa League final and finished 4th in Ligue 1.

And following his impressive form in France, Arsenal boss Unai Emery now wants to give the 25-year-old a second chance in the Premier League with the Gunners.

French news outlet Maxifoot report Emery is preparing a £44 million for Thauvin, as he looks to make the France international his fourth signing as Arsenal boss.

Arsenal have already completed the signing of goalkeeper Bern Leno, as well as defensive duo Stephan Lichtsteiner and Sokratis Papastathopoulos.

If Thauvin is to join that trio in North London however, Maxifoot also suggest that they may have to improve their already big bid for the Frenchman, with Marseille keen to hold on to one of their most prized assets.