Arsenal transfer news: Jonny Evans and Federico Fernandez in frame after Per Mertesacker injury

The latest news, rumours and speculation surrounding the Gunners

Jonny Evans could be on his way to the Emirates Stadium on a full-time basis, according to reports (Getty)

Arsenal are set to launch a £15m bid for West Bromwich Albion defender Jonny Evans following Per Mertesacker's injury.

The German underwent knee surgery after a draw in Lens in mid-July and will not play again till the New Year. Gunners coach Arsene Wenger sees former Manchester United man Evans as an idea stand-in, according to the Sunday Mirror.

The Northern Ireland international impressed as his country enjoyed a run to the last sixteen of the European Championship in the summer, while also starring for his Baggies side in recent seasons.

Valencia's Shkodran Mustafi and Kalidou Koulibaly, of Napoli, have also been heavily linked with the club in recent days.

The Sun link the Gunners with a move for Swansea defender Federico Fernandez, while the Argentine's colleague at the Liberty Stadium, Ashley Williams - a long-time target for the Gunners - is closing in on a move to Ronald Koeman at Everton.

The Toffees are also seeking a move for out-of-favour keeper Wojciech Szczesny. The Sun claim Koeman is not convinced by Joel Robles following the departure of Tim Howard and wants to bring Szczesny back to the Premier League from a loan spell at Roma.

Wojciech Szczesny has spent the last season on loan at Roma but could now be on his way to Everton (Getty)

The same paper also link the Gunners with a move for Mauro Icardi, as the club continue to stutter in their pursuit of Alexandre Lacazette.

Wenger alo sought to defend his transfer dealings as supporters grow restless ahead of the closing of the transfer window in a month.

“I can understand the expectation and anxiety level of our fans because they see other clubs bringing players in,” the Frencham said. “We know the most active period is in the last week of August. And at the moment it is still a big poker game everywhere. The best way to conclude transfers is to not to talk about it. It makes it more difficult for me and it is difficult enough."

Jamie Vardy has called on Leicester colleague Riyad Mahrez to repel any advances from Arsenal and remain at the League champions.

Wenger was in Los Angeles on Saturday night to watch Mahrez feature for a Leicester side who were well beaten, 4-0, by PSG, with fans calling for the coach to make a move.

“I think everyone in the squad would want him here, playing with us,” Vardy told Sky Sports of Mahrez. “But that's nothing to do with us and it's down to Riyad and the club to sort out.”