Arsenal have been handed a massive boost in their pursuit of Basel defender Fabian Schar, who admitted he wants to leave the Swiss club.
The 22-year-old has been linked with a move away from Basel in recent summer’s but failed to see a move develop.
However, after speaking with Swiss media Blick, Schar gave his biggest indication yet that he would like to leave the Swiss league and move to a bigger European club.
Arsenal have been extremely interested as they seek to add extra cover to their defence.
“Basel are open to negotiations, but at this moment I have decided that I want to concentrate on my performances.
“I went through a difficult period and it wasn’t the right time to discuss my renewal. I don’t want to be worrying about that now.
“My dream remains to have an experience abroad. I’ve always said that if the opportunity presented itself, I would take it, obviously in agreement with Basel.
“I need a team with important prospects. I’d like the Bundesliga, Premier League or top Italian clubs like Inter, Milan and Juventus. I couldn’t say no.
“I want to hear all my options and consider them carefully. There was some contact in the summer, but nothing serious.”