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Arsenal are eyeing a move for Roma midfielder Steven Nzonzi this summer, according to Tuttomercatoweb.

The midfielder is familiar with Unai Emery, with the two men having worked together at Sevilla.

What’s the word?

The aforementioned report claims that Arsenal are monitoring the Frenchman closely. Nzonzi has made a total of 34 appearances for Roma this season, with the club currently sixth in Serie A.

Roma secured the former Stoke City midfielder from Sevilla in 2018 and the club are said to be keen to recoup the majority of the €30million (£25.9m) they spent.

Indeed, the report claims that the Italian club are keen to receive €22m (£19m) if they are to allow the star to leave this summer.

Nzonzi, of course, played under Emery at Sevilla between 2015 and 2016, winning the Europa League.

A familiar face

Perhaps it is Emery driving this deal.

Of course, Arsenal are without a technical director after the departure of Sven Mislintat and, with a reunion on the cards, it would not be a surprise if it was the manager calling the shots.

Arsene Wenger used to do that before his departure, to the chagrin of many fans, such was his tight-fistedness.

But this would make sense for all concerned.

A move for Nzonzi would deepen the reserves in midfield, add some steel and also bring in a player with whom Emery has a positive working relationship.

If it is his recommendation, it is a fine one, but it remains to be seen if Arsenal’s powerbrokers will be able to get it over the line.