Arsenal have made their move for £36million Brazil star Everton Soares.
The Gunners are key to tie up a deal for the 23-year-old winger who played an integral role in his country’s success at the Copa America this summer.
But they face competition from Napoli with the Italian club equally as keen in the Gremio forward.
A deal with Arsenal would cast doubt over whether the north Londoners will pursue a move for Crystal Palace winger Wilfred Zaha this summer.
Marco Silva's Everton entered the fray for the Ivory Coast star this week and are willing to meet the Eagles’ asking price - in excess of £70million - while Arsenal have balked at the valuation.
Reports in Brazil suggest Soares has started to learn English in readiness for a move to the Premier League.
Last season he netted 15 goals in 31 matches and provided three assists.
He went on to score goals in group stage victories over Bolivia and Peru at the Copa America before the netting in in the final against the Peruvians at the Maracana.
