Arsenal have had a bid for defender Ben White turned down by his club Brighton. 

The Gunners are also keeping Aston Villa at bay as they await Emile Smith Rowe to sign a new deal at the Emirates.

England defender White has emerged as one of Mikel Arteta's primary targets this summer, as he looks to rebuild his defence. David Luiz has seen his contract expire, and Arteta needs reinforcements for the likes of Gabriel and Rob Holding.

It's reported that Arsenal have approached Brighton with a bid of £40million (€46.5m) for White, who made 36 Premier League appearances for the Seagulls last season.

The 23-year old is currently with the England squad, having been named as Trent Alexander-Arnold's replacement prior to Euro 2020.

Arsenal are expected to return to the AmEx with an improved offer for White.

Arteta is also chasing Anderlecht midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga, with a €20million deal likely to be completed this summer.

Meanwhile, the Gunners have rejected a £25million bid from Aston Villa for Emile Smith Rowe.

The 20-year old is under contract until 2023, but Arsenal are unwilling to sell the 20-year old playmaker. Smith Rowe has just enjoyed his best season with the club, scoring seven goals and providing just as many assists.

Talks are ongoing regarding a new contract with the North London club. The academy graduate began negotiations in April, with Arsenal keen to see pen put to paper as soon as possible.

Villa have already shown they're not short of a few quid, having shelled out a club record £33million (€38.4m) on Emi Buendia's move from Norwich City.

Manchester United have bid rejected for Atletico’s Kieran Trippier