The Gunners splashed the cash to sign Germany international Shkodran Mustafi from Valencia last August.

But the 25-year-old struggled to justify his hefty £35m transfer fee at times as Arsene Wenger’s side continued to ship goals.

Mustafi was linked with a return to Italy during the recent transfer window, with Inter Milan thought to be interested in getting him on-board.

And it seems Arsenal were plotting a raid on Serie A in return with Rugani said to be in their sights.

According to Sport Mediaset, Wenger was one of three managers keen on the centre-back.

Maurizio Sarri was after Rugani too as he looked to add to Napoli’s defensive options.

While Zenit St. Petersburg gaffer Roberto Mancini apparently had his eye on the 23-year-old as well.

However, Juventus chiefs Giuseppe Marotta and Fabio Paratici were unwilling to let him move.

Rugani has made three league starts under Massimiliano Allegri this term.

And he’s in contention to add to that total when Juventus visit Sassuolo tomorrow.