MONACO EYE UP GRIMANDI

Monaco are struggling this season, having already been knocked out of the French Cup by Third Division Valence, and now boss Claude Puel is hoping to bring the 30-year-old to the Stade Louis II to strengthen his defence.

Arsenal have apparently told the French club that they would have to up their bid by a further £2 million to prise him away from Highbury.

Grimandi's team-mate Ray Parlour may also soon be the subject of a transfer bid, from Aston Villa.

Villa boss John Gregory is reportedly lining up a bid for the England international, alerted by the fact that the arrival of Edu at Arsenal may limit his chances of first team appearances.

Gregory is desperate to prove that Villa do have ambition and are looking to bring in more quality players.