Arsenal’s move for Manchester United defender Chris Smalling will be rejected, according to Manchester Evening News.
Gunners boss Arsene Wenger has sat down with board members to short-list his defensive targets for the summer transfer window.
Frenchman Wenger has improved his defensive options this season having signed Gabriel Paulista from Villarreal, however, he remains keen on adding some extra cover with the view to eventually replacing out-of-form Per Mertesacker.
A number of targets have been linked with a move to the Emirates stadium, but it is understood Wenger has a short-list of four names.
Smalling is favourite to switch Premier League clubs after he came close to signing for the Gunners in 2010, but chose to join the Old Trafford outfit.
However, it is understood that United will strongly reject a £12m bid for the England centre-back.