Arsenal are thought to be in the market for defensive reinforcements this summer, with Evans mentioned as a possible target.

Pulis admits West Brom could lose Jonny Evans to Arsenal

West Bromwich Albion manager Tony Pulis admits he is fearful of losing star defender Jonny Evans to Arsenal before the close of the transfer window, but insists he does not want to sell the Northern Ireland international, the Daily Mirror has reported.

An injury crisis at the Emirates has seen Arsenal in the market for defensive reinforcements this summer, with the Gunners consistently linked with a move for Valencia’s Shkodran Mustafi.

However, Wenger is also thought to be an admirer of Evans, with the Frenchman keen on adding a player with Premier League experience to his ranks.

An impressive performance in West Brom’s 1-0 win at Crystal Palace last weekend only saw his stock rise further, but Pulis is nevertheless determined to keep hold of Evans, who arrived at the Hawthorns for £8 million from Manchester United last summer.

According to the Daily Mirror, Pulis told reporters: “The most important thing is that Jonny is with us and we want him to stay because he’s an outstanding player.

“Last Saturday, whether it was (Andros) Townsend or (Wilfried) Zaha, and it’s not Jonny’s favourite position playing as a full-back, he was most probably our best player on the pitch.”

However, despite his determination to keep Evans at the club, Pulis admits he may be powerless to prevent him moving to North London.

“You don’t want to lose your best players, but in football sometimes that happens,” he added.

“If it does happens, you need to make sure you know where your replacements are.”

In other news, Director suggests ‘fantastic player’ may not join Leeds United amid rumour