Arsenal chiefs will sit down with their Juventus counterparts on Monday for further transfer talks over a January loan for Arthur Melo, according to reports in Italy.
But there remains plenty of uncertainty surrounding the potential deal and Arthur's behaviour towards Juve boss Massimiliano Allegri has made the situation unclear.
The Gunners have been pursuing the Brazil international for almost two weeks with Mikel Arteta keen to add a new face in midfield ahead of the second half of the season.
Arthur's agent visited the club's London Colney base last week and the 25-year-old is believed to be keen to be keen on the switch to the Emirates.
However, he has failed to directly communicate this to Allegri, so the deal is by no means finalised.
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That is according to TuttoMercatoWeb, which claims the details of the loan deal still need to be thrashed out by the two clubs.
Juve are said to be targeting an 18-month loan for the former Barcelona star and there is the possibility of an option to buy being included.
The report adds this structure would suit Arthur, as he desires long-term stability rather than a short-term stint in north London.
However, this is at odds with other updates from Italy which assert Juve will let the player depart on a six-month loan with an obligation to buy this summer.
Allegri, meanwhile, is said to be searching for a replacement for Arthur, with Borussia Monchengladbach's Denis Zakaria and Lyon's Bruno Guimaraes on his shortlist.
The Italian manager does not want to be left short in the centre of the park in the case of Arthur departing, even though he has only played a minor role in his side this season.
He came off the bench in Sunday's goalless draw against AC Milan in Serie A, marking his ninth league appearance of the season.
Speaking ahead of the fixture, Allegri declared Arthur would not be going anywhere and reaffirmed his importance.
"This is our team and we’re not going to change anything," the 54-year-old said. "Arthur's part of the Brazil national team, he's an important player."
It remains to be seen whether Allegri will stick to his stance or allow Arthur to depart if Arsenal test his resolve with an attractive offer for the player.
An alternative target for the Gunners is believed to be Youri Tielemans and they reportedly held talks over a transfer for the Leicester City midfielder earlier this month.
The Belgium international, 24, has less than 18 months remaining on his contract at the King Power.
