Arsenal and Chelsea ‘register interest’ in Brazilian teenager as Premier League rivals ‘line up’ England ace

It’s another massive weekend of action in English football’s top flight as Arsenal hope to record another victory to retain or extend their five-point lead at the top of the table.

Mikel Arteta’s side are preparing for their next Premier League match against London rivals Fulham at Craven Cottage on Sunday while nearest rivals Manchester City are also in the capital, facing Crystal Palace at Selhurst Park on Saturday. Meanwhile, there is plenty of transfer gossip going on behind the scenes and the Gunners are now being linked with a Brazilian teenager who is thought to be on Barcelona’s radar. Here are the latest Arsenal transfer news headlines on Friday, March 10:

Arsenal and Chelsea ‘register interest’ in Brazilian teenager

Per a report from 90min, Arsenal and Chelsea have now registered their interest in Brazilian talent Vitor Roque who has admitted he feels ready to move to Europe. Barcelona are said to be ‘still leading the chase’ to land the 18-year-old Athletico Paranaense starlet but Manchester United, West Ham and Newcastle United have all also been linked in the past.

Rogue reportedly has a €60 million (£53 million) release clause in his contract and recently said: “I definitely feel prepared to play in Europe. I’m working for it, and I’m focused on getting there as prepared as possible. The number nine shirt certainly has a different type of weight to it. If you stop to think about it, so many players are now successful, like Richarlison, and others from the past, it’s about pride.”

Newcastle United ‘well placed’ to sign Southampton skipper

According to Football Insider, Newcastle United are ready to battle Premier League rivals for Southampton captain James Ward-Prowse in the summer window. Tottenham Hotspur and Aston Villa are among the England internationals ‘long term admirers’ and the 28-year old will almost certainly come on to the market if the Saints are relegated to the EFL Championship at the end of this season.

Ward-Prowse’s current contract runs until 2026, reportedly at £100k per week, and it’s the Magpies who are said to be ‘ramping up’ their interest. The midfielder has played every minute of Premier League action for the Saints so far this campaign.