Arsenal have made enquiries for Valencia defender Shkodran Mustafi and West Brom's Jonny Evans but have yet to make a bid.

Chelsea have also added former Everton defender Mustafi to their list of options as they look to improve their central defensive options.

The German international has a £41m buyout clause but Valencia may be open to offers around £25m.

Arsenal have made an enquiry for Shkodran Mustafi but face competition from Chelsea

The Gunners are also eyeing up a move for West Brom's central defender Jonny Evans

Arsenal need to add a new defender after club captain Per Mertesacker was ruled out for several months.

The giant German picked up a knee injury during Arsenal's opening pre-season friendly against RC Lens last month.

With Laurent Koscielny unavailable for the start of the season after his exertions at Euro 2016 for France, manager Arsene Wenger is likely to call upon Brazilian Gabriel Paulista and Calum Chambers for the opening game against Liverpool.

Arsenal need to add to their defence after losing Per Mertesacker to a long term injury

Rob Holding, a summer signing from Bolton Wanderers, is likely to need time to settle.

The young defender never appeared in the Premier League prior to joining the north London club.

Chelsea kick-off their new season under recently appointed manager Antonio Conte against West Ham on August 15.