EXCLUSIVE: Brighton and Hove Albion are in the race to sign Arsenal hotshot Khayon Edwards in the transfer window this summer but face competition from Chelsea in a free deal
(Image: Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
Brighton have joined Chelsea in the race to sign Arsenal ace Khayon Edwards, who is out of contract at the end of the season.
The Gunners have high hopes that they can pen the 18-year-old to a new contract after proving a sensation at youth level. But the newfound interest in his services will come as a blow to the north London club.
Edwards has been the main frontman for the Arsenal Under-18s this season and has done so in incredible fashion. The teenager has scored 16 times in all competitions and has also made two appearances for the Under-23s.
And his performances have caught the eye around the country and the Mirror have reported that Brighton are interested in snapping the forward up at the end of the season. They are not alone, with Chelsea also strongly keen on a transfer this summer.
Across the continent, there are plenty of clubs taking a closer look as well. Feyenoord, RB Leipzig and Hertha Berlin are among those who could make a move ahead of the end of the campaign.
There had been news that Arsenal are growing more confident that they can pen Edwards to a new deal before his current terms expire this summer. However, Brighton's new interest could see Edwards' head turn due to the pathway to the first-team on the south coast.
Khayon Edwards has been in fine form for Arsenal's academy
Khayon Edwards has been in fine form for Arsenal's academy
Graham Potter has a track history of trusting his youngsters and giving them the kind of first-team football that they crave and need for their development. It was evident when Tariq Lamptey made the decision to snub a new deal at Chelsea and join Brighton.
Moises Caicedo is another, who decided to turn down a move to Manchester United in favour of the Seagulls and has been given ample time to play in the Premier League. Brighton also need a striker with Danny Welbeck's contract expiring this summer, opening up a potential first-team spot for Edwards.
Arsenal have a similar problem with Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah seeing their deals come to an end when the season is over. But despite the lack of options, Mikel Arteta's plan is to splash the cash on a new forward.
Darwin Nunez, Dominic Calvert-Lewin and Alexander Isak are on the shortlist at the Emirates but whoever will join will likely keep Edwards fighting for his chances in the reserves. Folarin Balogun might consider himself ahead of the queue after joining Middlesbrough on loan this season.
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