Feyenoord boss Dick Advocaat has confirmed Arsenal want to sign their attacking midfielder Orkun Kokcu.
Sportsmail revealed last week that the Gunners had opened talks regarding a £23million move for the 19-year-old.
And Advocaat has effectively admitted Arsenal are hoping to land the youngster ahead of next season.
The Feyenoord chief said: 'It seems that what I read is true, but no one has yet come to Feyenoord (to make their interest clear).
'I think he fits in everywhere.'
Arsenal will face competition from Sevilla, but are hopeful of striking an early deal for the attacking midfielder - who is tipped to become one of the stars of Euro 2020.
Feyenoord want to tempt Kokcu to stay with an improved contract, but there is significant doubt over whether they can afford the sort of deal he will get elsewhere.
It comes as Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta wants a ruthless clear-out this summer to make way for new signings.
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I feel we are tired of experiments as Arsenal....we must go back to where we belong Champions contenders. 1. We need one more rock Centre Back. Since Saliba is coming in . We have Pablo Mari. No worries. Mustafa is performing. 2. We desperately need a CDM. Thomas Partey is the priority or Boubakary Soumare. they will partner Dani Ceballos is the preference. with Lucas Toreirra and Guendouzi being developed we can be world class. 3. Attacking Midfielder is our problem this season for we overly depended on Ozil. we need his successor now in Kai Havertz. 4. Attacking Winger who is right footed on the left where we are abusing Aubermeyang. Why didn't we take Everton Soares last summer? He he is the perfect replacement of Sanchez...together with Martinelli as a make-shift on that flank. it's a near perfect squad.