Joachim Andersen is a target for Arsenal this summer transfer window...

What's the word?

That's according to The Athletic, who claim the Lyon centre-back is likely to end up in North London with both Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur battling it out for his signature after an impressive loan spell at Fulham this campaign.

Arch-rivals Spurs appear to be the clear favourites, whilst Europa League runners-up Manchester United have also been mooted with interest, but there is seemingly still a chance that he could end up at The Emirates.

The 25-year-old is likely to command a fee in the region of €23m (£20m) and the Ligue 1 outfit are said to be open to offers, with them not planning for his return ahead of pre-season.

Luiz replacement

This could be quite a shrewd piece of business from Mikel Arteta and Edu as they certainly need to bolster their side's defence following the confirmed departure of David Luiz.

After two years at the Emirates Stadium, the 34-year-old will leave the club following the expiry of his contract, leaving a huge hole in the backline.

Andersen may well have been part of a side relegated from the big time this season but he was one of the few shining lights in Scott Parker's side - evidently if three of the traditional top seven are mooted with interest.

Luiz, a renowned livewire, has been a very good ball-playing defender for the Gunners. For example, this season, his 83.5% passing accuracy and 3.6 long balls per game saw him rate out as one of Arteta's best options.

As per WhoScored, the five-cap Denmark international recorded a respectable 5.8 successful long balls each outing and still brought home 81.4% accuracy, which was better than midfielders like Ruben Loftus-Cheek and Ademola Lookman.

His form at Craven Cottage has earned a fair share of plaudits, with the 6 foot 4 centre-back being described as "absolutely sensational" by club legend Tony Gale and "magnificent" by the Mirror's chief football writer John Cross.

For just £20m, there can't be many better alternatives out there at such a bargain price, especially if Arsenal want to instantly get back on track next season.

Andersen just proved he can cut the mustard in the Premier League and with Arteta in need of a new option, Edu must look to secure him as he seems to be the dream replacement for Luiz, on the above evidence.

AND in other news, Edu could finally replace Ozil with Arsenal swoop for "exceptional" £18m-rated wizard...