The Gunners want the Welshman as a replacement for their captain.
In a move that is bound to disappoint Swans fans Arsenal are set to make a move for Swansea defender Ashley Williams to replace the departing Thomas Vermaelen, according to thisissouthwales.co.uk.
The out-of-favour Belgian has been linked with a transfer to Manchester United and whilst Laurent Koscielny and Per Mertesacker have staked their claim as a central defensive partnership, manager Arsene Wenger still wants there to be competition for places.
Wenger has had his eye on Williams for some time after the defender had an impressive second season in the top flight under new boss Michael Laudrup, helping guide the Welsh side to a top 10 finish and Capital One Cup glory.
However, the Swans will be reluctant to sell the Wales captain and are unlikely to accept any bids lower than £12million for their key man.
Williams joined Swansea from League Two side Stockport County back in 2008 for just £500,000, when the club themselves were still a League One side.
Since then the 28-year-old has made 231 appearances for the Swans and has been a key member of the first team over two promotions and features captain in the continued absence of Garry Monk.
Vermaelen meanwhile will be the makeweight for the arrival of Williams and the Belgium international is thought to be allowed to leave the Emirates for as little as £5million.
The 27-year-old was considered a firm favourite in the Arsenal starting XI up until this season, but has since fallen out of favour with the manager and has also been linked with a move to Barcelona.
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