Arsenal and Napoli vying for N’Koulou

French newspaper Le 10 Sport understands that Arsenal and Napoli are locked in the battle for Marseille defender Nicolas N’Koulou.

The 23-year-old is widely regarded as one of world’s most talented defenders and he is held in high regard by top European clubs.

And while former club Monaco seem to have cooled off interest in the Cameroon stopper, Arsenal and Napoli are stepping up their efforts.

Both sides are eager to reinforce their back line in January and could be making a move on N’Koulou in the coming weeks.

Nevertheless, La Provence has suggested that Marseille have no plans to sell their prized asset midway through the season, although a summer exit is a realistic possibility.

Despite his fragile age, N’Koulou has already made 163 Ligue 1 appearances, scoring 1 goal in the process, while earning 31 Cameroon caps, and he is set to represent the the Indomitable Lions at the 2014 World Cup.