Arsenal transfer news: Arsene Wenger 'targets' Roma defender Kostas Manolas

Kostas Manolas replaced Medhi Benatia when he left for Bayern Munich

(GETTY IMAGES)

Roma defender Kostas Manolas has again gained the attention of Arsene Wenger, who is looking to fix Arsenal's defensive problems, according to the Greek media.

After strengthening Arsenal's back line with the acquisition of former Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech, the Frenchman will be looking to put together a rock-solid defence for next season.

Manolas, who was linked with a move to Arsenal before joining Roma, is the latest name coming out of the hat. Wenger had the chance to see him play in person three years ago when the north London club was drawn in the same Champions League group stage as Olympiakos.

The 24-year-old amassed 49 appearances and four goals, two of which were scored in crucial Champions League clashes against Benfica and Paris Saint-Germain, with the Piraeus club.

He moved to the Serie A last summer for £10.3m to replace Medhi Benatia who left for Bayern Munich - he has thus far played 30 matches for the Giallorossi who finished second in Serie A behind Juventus last season.

He also made a great impression at last summer's World Cup which helped Greece eliminate Ivory Coast and qualify to the last-16 where they played Costa Rica.

Reports suggest that the centre-back has also attracted interest from Manchester United who are also looking to build up a strong defence.

Nevertheless, this will not be an easy case as Roma will not consider any offer that costs less than £21.6m.

Arsenal have also been linked with a move for Manchester United's Jonny Evans.