Arsenal are closing in on Saint-Etienne midfielder Blaise Matuidi.

The France U21 international is seen by Gunners boss Arsene Wenger as a potential replacement for former skipper Gilberto Silva, now with Panathinaikos.

Matuidi is expected to attract an £8 million offer from Arsenal in January, though Tottenham and Chelsea have also had scouts at St Etienne games in recent weeks.