Arsenal Move Ahead Of Spurs and United In Race For £50 Million-Rated Star

Arsenal have reportedly moved ahead of Manchester United and Tottenham in the race to sign in-demand Bordeaux starlet Malcolm.

The 20-year old Brazilian has been in electric form this season, scoring seven goals and registering four assists for his team.

His displays have caught the eye of a number of Europe's elite, but Arsenal are said to be the frontrunners for the forward's signature.

According to transfer guru Gianluca Di Marzio, Arsenal arranged a meeting with Malcolm's agent to discuss a potential transfer. Writing in the early hours of Wednesday morning, the Sky Italia journalist said the meeting was set to take place later on in the day.

The Brazil Under 20 international, who moved to Ligue One from Corinthians in 2016, would command a fee in the region of £50 million but it's noted that Arsenal are "serious" about him and actively trying to find an agreement.

Malcolm, who can play in multiple roles, would come in as a direct replacement for Alexis Sanchez, who looks nailed on to leave and could even be a Manchester City player by the time the January transfer window ends.

He isn't the only name to be linked though, as d according to TyC Sports, the Gunners have identified Cristian Pavon, the next big thing to emerge from Argentine giants Boca Juniors, as the man to fill Sanchez's boots.

They say Arsenal are willing to pay the 21-year old winger's $37 million release clause and could make an official bid very soon.