Arsenal 'leading Liverpool, Manchester City in Cody Gakpo race'

Arsenal have jumped ahead of Liverpool and Manchester City in the race for PSV Eindhoven's 22-year-old forward Cody Gakpo, according to a report.

The Dutchman has emerged as one of the most targeted youngsters across Europe following his displays for PSV, for whom he has scored nine goals and provided 13 assists for in 23 Eredivisie appearances so far this season.

The Premier League looks to be his most likely destination should he make the move this summer, with Aad de Mos reporting that although Liverpool and City hold an interest in the forward, it is Arsenal that are leading the race.

It is reported that the Dutch club want around €40m (£33.3m) for their asset, who has admitted his admiration for Arsenal legend Thierry Henry when he was growing up.

Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is on the lookout for attacking reinforcements in the upcoming transfer window, with Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah set to leave the Emirates Stadium at the end of the season following the expiration of their contracts as things stand.

Meanwhile, another reported target for the Gunners is City's Brazilian forward Gabriel Jesus, with it being reported that Arsenal have even agreed a deal for the 25-year-old to make the move at the end of the season.