Arsenal in £50m battle Juventus for World Cup winner.

The Gunners are believed to be in a bidding race with the Serie A giants over an Argentine world champion.

Mikel Arteta is understood to be monitoring the progress of Alexis Mac Allister and would be interested in firming up their interest with a bid of around £50m for the highly-rated former Boca Juniors star who impressed during the run to secure La Albiceleste's third global title. 

With the sides set to meet at the Amex on New Year's Eve - without the presence of 24-year-old Seagull who had been granted extra leave to take in the celebrations in Buenos Airies - the clubs hierachies could meet to discuss the coveted Argentine's future.

However, Arsenal have been handed a potential blow in their pursuit of the Brighton midfielder when the transfer window opens thanks to serious Juventus' interest. 

Yet, with Arteta's young charges leading the Premier League table by five points from Manchester City, the North Londoners are an attractive proposition. 

Arteta will hope that his team can continue their winning start to the second half of the season with another three points against Brighton, while Pep Guardiola's City will host a struggling Everton side as they aim to keep pace with the league leaders.