Arsenal, Barcelona keep tabs on Valencia striker Francisco Alcacer

Arsenal and Barcelona are reportedly in a battle to sign Valencia forward Francisco ‘Paco’ Alcacer by the January transfer window.

The 18-year-old, who has racked up 54 appearances in the Spanish second division for Valencia's B team, has attracted interest from the two clubs and is believed to be valued in the region of £9m, according to talkSPORT.

The promising youngster, who is contracted to the Primera Liga club until 2013, has reportedly rejected an extension.

The Spaniard has a tally of 33 goals to his name which includes the hat-trick he scored for Valencia's reserves against Lleida Esportiu last month.