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Eric dos Santos Rodrigues is again being linked with Arsenal - after speculation first started back in January 2018.

The midfielder, who plays under the name Ramires, has been a target for some time.

The 18-year-old currently plays for Brazilian side Bahia.

But executive director Diego Cerri confirmed 'conversations' with Flamengo - but Arsenal scouts have been back and the player would jump at the chance to move to the Premier League.

"Ramires is a boy of great potential, a bright future," he said. "We are talking with Flamengo and also with other teams.

(Image: AFP/Getty Images)

"There is also the interest from outside the country, representatives of European club teams that back and a half go to the games to observe it."

Meanwhile Barcelona president Josep Maria Bartomeu has told interested clubs that they do not plan to sell Samuel Umtiti this summer.

Spanish newspaper Diario AS claimed Juventus are close to signing the centre-back.

But reports in Italy say thep layer wants out - and favours a move to Arsenal.

“He’s a very good player,” Gunners boss Unai Emery said earlier this month.

(Image: SIPA USA/PA Images)

“France has a lot of very good footballers who are playing abroad. ‘The French league is a very attractive market for a lot of teams.

“I’ve always had French players in my teams. At Valencia, Sevilla, PSG and here at Arsenal. I’ve always been able to count on those players.”

Arsenal were on Monday handed some transfer encouragement as one of their top targets is guaranteed to go this summer.

(Image: AFP/Getty Images)

Nicolas Pepe will leave Lille at the end of the season, according to the club's president.

Gerard Lopez told Telefoot he expects the player to move on.

"Four or five players will be leaving this summer,” he said.

“All clubs are forced to balance their accounts except perhaps one. I would say yes, it is sure he [Pepe] will leave."