Arsenal transfer latest: Cavani, Vargas driving Wenger; Kieran Gibbs out

Arsenal defender Kieran Gibbs will miss both legs of the Champions League playoff against Besiktas after being ruled out for up three weeks with a hamstring injury.

The left back was hurt in Saturday's 2-1 win over Crystal Palace, Arsenal's opening match of the Premier League season. Nacho Monreal will likely come on as a replacement.

The Telegraph reports Arsenal have identified Olympiakos defender Kostas Manolas as leading and most realistic transfer target at centre-back.

Also, according to Tuttosport Arsenal are in advanced negotiations with Napoli for the loan transfer of 24-year-old Chilean forward Eduardo Vargas.

Meanwhile, the Metro says Arsenal are continuing to pursue their interest in PSG striker Edinson Cavani, despite the Uruguayan suggesting he will stay in France.

Striker Yaya Sanogo has not traveled to Turkey for Tuesday's first leg either, but center back Laurent Koscielny is fit after recovering from an Achilles problem. The second leg is on Aug. 27.

Arsenal is looking to qualify for the group stage of the Champions League for a 17th straight season.

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