Report: Arsenal lead Nolito race

Arsenal have reportedly moved to the head of the queue to sign Celta Vigo forward Nolito, despite Barcelona's long-standing interest.

The 29-year-old, who has scored seven league goals for Celta this season, has long been linked with a return to Barcelona, who he represented between 2008 and 2011, mainly in the B team.

It is widely thought that Barcelona will make a move for the Spanish international in January, but according to AS, it is Arsenal that now lead the race for a player that has a release clause in the region of £13m.

Nolito, who was part of the Spain team that recorded a 2-0 win over England in an international friendly last Friday, has previously refused to hide his affection for Barcelona.