Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin is ready to turn down an approach from Newcastle to join Arsenal.
Toffees striker Calvert-Lewin, 25, has endured an injury-plagued campaign and is without a goal in 11 appearances since returning to the fold.
With relegation still a distinct possibility for the Merseysiders, a flash sale could be on the cards at Goodison Park this summer.
However, Football Insider suggest Calvert-Lewin has decided to depart for pastures new regardless — and has made no secret of his preferred destination.
Newcastle have been one of the Premier League’s form sides since their January strengthening and are thought to be admirers of the England international.
But the lure of potential Champions League football gives the Gunners a significant edge in the race, with Calvert-Lewin supposedly telling friends he wants to join Mikel Arteta’s men.
Arsenal are known to be in the market for an out-and-out No9 following Pierre Emerick-Aubameyang’s January departure and Alexandre Lacazette also looks set to leave in the summer.
Calvert-Lewin ticks a lot of boxes but will not come cheap, given he has over three years remaining on his reported £72,000-a-week deal.
In other news
Manchester United are still confident of making a £50m move for Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips happen, according to the Athletic.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano claims several of Europe’s top clubs are taking a close look at Lille striker Jonathan David, with the 22-year-old Canadian valued at over £42m.
Tammy Abraham is refusing to rule out a Roma departure this summer, according to Metro. Arsenal are among the clubs tracking the ex-Chelsea marksman, 24, after a prolific campaign in Italy.