ARSENAL boss Unai Emery’s first signing could be Roma’s Lorenzo Pellegrini, according to reports.
The new Gunners gaffer is ready to splash the cash in an attempt to send Arsenal back into the Champions League.
Emery, who was only appointed on Wednesday, has a tough job to do in order to rebuild the squad this summer.
And he wants to start by adding quality in the middle of the park by landing the Italian midfielder, reports Sky Sports.
The talented 21-year-old has a £26million release clause in his contract.
Pellegrini played a crucial role in Roma’s run to the Champions League semi-finals and made 36 appearances in all competitions.
The report also claims that Roma are already planning for life without Pellegrini as they target Atalanta’s Bryan Cristante as his replacement.
But they face competition from Italian giants Juventus who are also braced to make a move for his signature.
Arsenal have an advantage in the race with Emery a close friend of Roma director Monchi from their time together at Sevilla.
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Emery could also swoop for Nice star Jean-Michael Seri this summer.
The Ivory Coast midfielder is also attracting interest from Chelsea, Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund.
Emery is a long-term fan of the 26-year-old having tried to sign him while in charge of PSG in January.
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