Arsenal FC transfer news: Unai Emery close to making Juventus defender Stephan Lichtsteiner his first Gunners signing

Arsenal are understood to be closing in on the signing of Juventus right-back Stephan Lichtsteiner.

The 34-year-old is out of contract with the Italian champions this summer and is set to become the first arrival of Unai Emery's reign in north London.

Emery was only appointed as Arsene Wenger's successor on Wednesday but has moved quickly to close out a deal for the Switzerland international.

The new Gunners boss is looking to add experience to his squad and Lichtsteiner certainly fits the bill.

He has won seven successive Serie A titles with Juventus, plus four Italian Cups, and is closing in on a century of caps for Switzerland.

An attacking right-back who can also operate in midfield, Lichtsteiner has made more than 250 appearances for Juventus since arriving from Lazio in 2011.

Arsenal hope to conclude a deal for the free agent before the World Cup in Russia, where Lichtsteiner is expected to captain Switzerland.