Arsenal are planning on meeting with Bordeaux’s Brazilian winger Malcom today in an attempt to beat out rivals for the 20-year-old’s signature, according to The Times.
The newspaper report that Arsenal are trying to steal a march on rivals Tottenham Hotspur, who have also been monitoring the wonderkid.
The Times claim that if the Gunners were to secure a deal for the forward, it could pave the way for Alexis Sanchez to leave the club.
It is said that the Ligue 1 club value their star man at around £45million, and the player has been learning English which suggests a move to the Premier League could happen.
Good move for Arsenal?
If they are looking at Malcom as a replacement for Alexis Sanchez, then this is both a good move and a necessary one from the Gunners.
It is looking increasingly likely that Sanchez will move on this month, and if Arsene Wenger fails to replace him adequately, then it could cost him his job.
Malcom has been tearing it up in Ligue 1 so far this term, scoring seven goals and laying on four assists in 18 appearances.
His pace and trickery on the wings is complemented by his accomplished finishing ability and his penchant for scoring worldies, much like the man he might replace.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
This would depend on how likely the Sanchez transfer to Manchester City is to happen.
At this point, that is looking likely, but Arsenal will have a fight on their hands for Malcom.
Tottenham have been linked with him, as have Manchester United, and there are sure to be other teams around Europe keeping tabs on the 20-year-old.
This is Futbol rating: 5/10