Vitoria Guimaraes’s Ibrahima Bamba is “available” for €7m (£6.1m) to €8m (£7m), according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

Arsenal are known to be admirers of the Italian, having sent scouts to watch him in action, but Romano says the Gunners have not held talks about signing the player despite their interest:

Arsenal have not submitted any bid or opened talks to sign Ibrahima Bamba, not even to prepare the deal for next summer. ⛔️🇮🇹 #AFC

Understand Italian talented midfielder is available for €7/8m to leave Vitória Guimarães now — but the race is still open, nothing advanced yet. pic.twitter.com/oRh8hv0WFQ

— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) January 31, 2023

Bamba was touted as a potential option to strengthen the midfield as he can play further up the pitch, despite being used as a centre-back by Vitoria this season.

However, the impending arrival of Jorginho from Chelsea would seem to rule out that possibility, unless another player leaves the Emirates before tonight’s deadline.

It has been reported that Crystal Palace are keen on recruiting Albert Sambi Lokonga on loan and, were that deal to be approved, it could free up space for someone like Bamba.

As Romano says, the race for the 20-year-old is “open” so we shall see if Arsenal or another team make a move for the player.