Arsenal close to signing 'new Lionel Messi'?

Arsenal are reportedly closing in on the signing of Maximiliano Romero from Velez Sarsfield for £4.5m.

The 16-year-old has been described as 'the new Lionel Messi', prompting a host of European sides to queue up for the forward's signature.

It is thought that Romero would remain in Argentina for the first two years of any potential deal, before making the switch to the Emirates Stadium on his 18th birthday.

Velez president Raul Gamez has confirmed that the Gunners have made a move for the youngster.

"Arsenal have made a big offer for Maxi Romero. I don't want to talk figures just yet but it's a big offer," the Daily Mirror quotes him as saying.

The report adds that Arsenal hope to tie up a deal for Romero within the next few weeks.