Flamengo centre-back Pablo Mari will hold talks with Arsenal “this afternoon” ahead of a prospective loan move to the Emirates, according to Football.London journalist James Benge.

The reporter has confirmed reports from Brazil that suggest that the Gunners are closing in on a deal for the Spanish defender. It is believed that the London club will have an option to sign the 26-year-old on a permanent basis at the end of the season.

Arsenal technical director Edu has used his connections in his homeland to strike a deal with Flamengo for Mari. The Spaniard only moved to the Brazilian club from Manchester City in July.

The centre-half never actually played for the Citizens, having had loan spells at NAC Breda, Girona and Deportivo La Coruna before making the permanent switch to Brazil.

Mari was an integral part of Flamengo’s team that won the Copa Libertadores and reached the final of the Club World Cup in December last year.