Arsenal confident of landing Mustafi as talks continue

The Gunners still expect to sign the Valencia defender despite the deal stalling over the weekend after personal terms had been agreed

Arsenal remain confident of signing Shkodran Mustafi as transfer talks between the Gunners and Valencia continue, Goal understands.

Mustafi, 24, was targeted by manager Arsene Wenger after injuries to Per Mertesacker and Gabriel left Arsenal short at centre-back, with the German international identified as the man to fill the void over the coming months.

The player's agent, Ali Bulut, and father, Kujtim, have been locked in negotations with Arsenal officials over the past few days after Mustafi informally accepted an offer to join the north London club.

"He is a Valencia player," Kujtim told Goal.  

"This is the only important thing for now. I cannot confirm anything [regarding how close a deal is]. This is a matter concerning only Valencia and my son."

Despite Arsenal's confidence and the player's enthusiasm, talks between the two clubs have not progressed as hoped since the weekend and a deal, expected to be struck in the region of £29 million, is now said to be days instead of hours away.

While Mustafi is Wenger's prime defensive target his back-up options include Bayer Leverkusen's Omer Toprak and Simon Kjaer of Fenerbahce, both of whom are likely to be available for around £20m.

Meanwhile, Aaron Ramsey looks set to be ruled out for almost a month with a hamstring injury sustained during Arsenal's defeat to Liverpool on Sunday, meaning at least one of Granit Xhaka, Santi Cazorla and Jack Wilshere is likely to start at Leicester City next weekend.