Arsenal have recruited David Luiz to convince his Brazilian team-mate Thiago Silva to join the Gunners from Paris Saint-Germain this summer, according to reports.
Silva has already announced that he will leave the French champions after the conclusion of this season's Champions League, bringing to an end his eight-year stint in Paris.
And Arsenal are keen to swoop ahead of Everton and Tottenham to sign the 35-year-old on a free transfer as they look to bring in a marquee signing to improve their defence ahead of next season.
Le10 Sport in France report that Mikel Arteta has already contacted the player to discuss a potential move, while Luiz has been drafted in as an intermediary to try and swing the pendulum in the Gunners' favour.
The Telegraph previously reported that Silva is desperate to come to the Premier League and is willing to take a significant wage cut to make it happen.
He had been linked with a return to Brazil with Fluminense, but recently ruled that out in favour of a move in Europe.
'Everyone knows the affection I have for Fluminense,' he said in an interview with Caras, 'but I still have goals to reach in Europe.'
Arsenal have 19-year-old William Saliba arriving from Saint-Etienne following his season back on loan in France, but the youngster could benefit from some experience alongside him in his maiden campaign in England.
Luiz could also offer that at the age of 33, but the Brazilian has come under heavy fire for his calamitous displays since the Premier League restart.
He came off the bench against Manchester City last month only to get sent off in their 3-0 defeat, therefore missing the club's next match.
