Arsenal lead Barcelona in striker race

Arsenal are closing in on the signing of Nolito from Celta Vigo, according to AS Diario, moving into pole position ahead of Barcelona, who were thought to be keen on signing the 29-year-old.

The report suggests that the Gunners are ready to activate a release clause in the Celta forward's contract, moving ahead of Barcelona in the race as Luis Enrique does not have the funds available to him.

Adding to Arsene Wenger's willingness to activate the release clause, Mundo Deportivo also report that Arsenal are prepared to triple Nolito's wages in their bid to convince the Spaniard to swap La Liga for the Premier League.