Arsenal look set to beat Manchester United and a number of top clubs from Europe to the signing of highly-rated Sunderland teenager Sam Greenwood, sources close to the North East club have told ESPN FC.
Greenwood, 16, is regarded as one of the best young talents in his age range and he has represented England at under-16 level.
He scored 21 goals in 26 games across Sunderland's U16s and U18s last season and his performances for club and country have brought him to the attention of Europe's elite after he turned down a new deal at Sunderland.
Manchester United and German side Stuttgart have both reportedly expressed an interest in Greenwood, but sources said that Arsenal are in pole position to land the teenager.
Arsenal are keen to strengthen their options at youth level and new coach Unai Emery and his backroom staff appear to see Greenwood as a potential star in the making who could progress into their first-team in future years.