Arsenal scouting England and Premier League ace for transfer as backup for William Saliba amid injury concerns

ARSENAL are keeping tabs on Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi, reports claim.

The Gunners are said to be keen on signing a central defender in the summer amid concerns over William Saliba’s long-term fitness.

GettyThere are claimed to be fears over William Saliba’s long-term fitness[/caption]

The Gunners are reportedly keeping an eye on Crystal Palace defender Marc GuehiAFP

Saliba, 21, has been out of action with a back injury since the Europa League defeat to Sporting CP in March.

There is currently no confirmed date for his return.

Rob Holding has filled in Saliba’s absence, but is out of contract next year.

And the Daily Mail say Arsenal are keeping an eye on former Chelsea man Guehi.

The 22-year-old has played 78 times for the Eagles and has been capped three times by England.

The Mail say it is unclear how much Palace would demand should the Gunners come calling for Guehi.

But it is thought that the Selhurst Park side would want more than the £18million paid to sign the defender in 2021.

Gueho has started all 33 Premier League games that he has been available for this season.

Saliba meanwhile was crucial for the Gunners before picking up a back problem.

His absence has highlighted Mikel Arteta’s lack of squad depth.

The Gunners are even reconsidering their entire transfer strategy this summer, having originally planned on making just two major signings.