Transfer Talk: Arsenal join the Rab race as Adrien nears Juve exit

Arsenal have joined the race for Adrien Rabiot and are reportedly closing in on a deal to sign the France midfielder.

The Juventus midfielder is out of contract next summer and nearly joined Manchester United earlier this year. 

United were expected to make another move during the January sales but now face competition from the Premier League leaders, according to Italian outlet Repubblica.

Rabiot, 27, impressed during Les Bleus' World Cup campaign, featuring in all but one of their games as they fell agonisingly short in the final, losing on penalties to Argentina in Qatar.

That has convinced the Gunners to swoop as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his midfield options for the second half of the campaign.

Finding a back-up to regulars Granit Xhaka and Thomas Partey remains one of the Spaniard's goals, having previously been linked with Aston Villa's Douglas Luiz and Leicester's Youri Tielemans.

Rabiot could be a cheaper alternative, with Juve said to be keen to offload him next month to avoid losing him for free when his contract expires.

He has been in fine form for the Old Lady this season, scoring five goals and registering two assists in all competitions.

In other news

In-demand England and Borussia Dortmund midfielder Jude Bellingham, 19, is set to choose Real Madrid over Liverpool, Manchester City and Chelsea, according to AS.

Fabrizio Romano says Chelsea have agreed to sign Molde forward David Datro Fofana, 20, for £12million.

Crystal Palace are interested in re-signing Aaron Wan-Bissaka, 25, from Manchester United, say the Evening Standard.