Arsenal target is set to join Chelsea this week

Arsenal have reportedly been eyeing Marcus Bettinelli.

The Daily Mail reported last week that the Gunners had entered the race for the 29-year-old goalkeeper.

Arsenal are currently on the lookout for reinforcements in between the sticks.

Bernd Leno’s future at the Emirates Stadium is uncertain, while Alex Runarsson has failed to impress.

Mikel Arteta promoted Arthur Okonkwo to the first-team, but the Hale End graduate is still fairly inexperienced.

However, it looks as though Arsenal, plus several other suitors, will miss out on Bettinelli.

According to The Guardian, Chelsea are closing in on the signing of the 6ft 4in stopper.

Bettinelli will join the Blues on a two-year contract later this week, claimed the report.

The former England Under-21 international is a free agent after leaving Fulham at the end of last season.

Veteran stopper set for fresh challenge

Bettinelli came through the ranks at Craven Cottage and has made 120 appearances for the club.

He played a key role in Fulham winning promotion to the Premier League three years ago.

Bettinelli’s efforts saw him rewarded with a call-up to the England squad in September 2018.

However, the player’s international aspirations suffered a dent after he fell down the pecking order at the club.

He spent last season on loan at Middlesbrough, who missed out on a Championship playoff spot.

Now, The Guardian reports that Bettinelli has decided to seek a fresh challenge.