Arsenal have opened talks with highly rated Belgian youngster David Henen and look set to beat competition from both Manchester United and City for the forwards signature.
The Anderlecht striker is tipped to make as big an impact as Adnan Januzaj should he move to the Premier League and the Daily Mail believe it is likely.
Talented and impressive record
Mail state that while Henen has yet to establish himself in the Anderlecht first team, his goalscoring record at youth level is impressive and he has represented Belgium international at youth level.
Adapt up front or on either flank, the young Belgian could join the Emirates club for around £1 million pound but would be loaned back to his former club immediately.
Return to Anderlecht?
The Metro, meanwhile, back up the Mail’s claims about Arsenal’s interest and the fee that would allow Henen to depart Belgium.
Interestingly they confirmed that the youngster spent last season on loan with the Monaco B team and that his style of football has been likened to Cristiano Ronaldo.
Hopefully Henen doesn’t join the illustrious list of young players that sign for Arsenal and fail to fulfill their potential, though.
Could Henen be a Campbell or a Roberts?
Although harsh on the 18-year-old to be pigeonholed so quickly, Wenger often buys talented forwards who flatter to deceive.
The latest was Yaya Sanogo from Auxerre last season. The forward actually played a big part in the Gunners successful season and performed well in various matches.
However, he failed to find the net in the numerous appearances he made for the club and question marks certainly remain over whether or not he can become a fully-fledged Arsenal forward.
Casting our eye back further afield and Joel Campbell could be Wenger’s saving grace, especially considering his impressive World Cup campaign with Costa Rica – which is still ongoing.
However the names of Ryo Miyaichi and Philip Roberts do not live long in the memory and hopefully Henen, if he joins, can go on to become a world beater and not another wash up.
Latest:
