Gunners set to sign Trabelsi

ARSENAL are close to agreeing a deal with Ajax for their outstanding full-back Hatem Trabelsi.

The 27-year-old looked to leave the Amsterdam Arena on a free transfer, and Manchester United, Chelsea and Juventus were ready to pounce.

Newcastle tried to land the Tunisian earlier this summer, but the move faltered when they tried to bypass the player’s agents and go straight to Ajax.

As Bobby Robson lined up another bid, Arsenal stepped in and agreed a fee of around £3m for the defender.

Trabelsi is expected to agree terms in the next week and complete the move soon after.

Despite Trabelsi’s arrival, Lauren - who can also play in midfield - is unlikely to be surplus to requirements as another reason for Wenger signing a full-back is to ensure Kolo Toure remains in central defence.

Wenger is also expected to complete the signing of Celta Vigo goalkeeper Manuel Almunia in the coming days.