Arsenal’s centre-back search is being met by closed doors and spiralling prices at home as well as across Europe, with West Bromwich Albion unwilling to even consider selling Jonny Evans for less than £25 million.

Southampton are also adamant that their captain Jose Fonte will not leave this summer and has the choice now simply between accepting the offer of an improved contract or remaining on his current wages for a deal that does not expire until 2018.

Arsenal are still hoping to complete a deal for Valencia’s Shkodran Mustafi but, amid a current stand-off over the fee, are considering other experienced Premier League options including Evans and Fonte.