Arsenal want Daniele Rugani, but defender 'respects' Juventus - agent

The agent of Juventus centre-back Daniele Rugani claims that Arsenal are keen to sign his client.

The Gunners are keen to bolster their creaking defence, and had a £12million offer for Jonny Evans dismissed by West Brom on deadline day of the January transfer window.

Arsene Wenger is expected to make reinforcements to his backline a top priority come the end of the season. The Gunners have long been linked with Rugani, 23, who has struggled to establish himself in the Juventus starting lineup.

The highly-rated youngster has featured in only one of the Juve's last 10 Serie A games, which may give Arsenal hope that he can be prised away - though it could take a high price for a defender whose deal does not expire until 2021.

Davide Torchia, Rugani’s representative, confirmed that Arsenal were keen on the youngster, but also revealed that no January move had been made.

"Daniele’s doing well, I’m happy for him," he told Radio Sportiva.

"Arsenal? They didn’t launch any assaults for him.

"They expressed a liking for him, but we have respect for Juventus."

The Gunners could still move for Evans in the summer, particularly if West Brom are relegated, in which case the Northern Ireland international would be available for just £3m.