Arsenal have been tracking Udinese’s 21-year-old midfielder in the last 12 months, and the left-foot star recently admitted he used to support the Gunners.

According to reports, Jakub Jankto said to La Gazzette dello Sport: “Arsenal and Juventus” when asked which clubs he supported as a child, which will intensify the rumours of him making a switch to the Emirates.

The Czech international scored and created nine goals in 24 Serie A starts for Udinese last season. He operates as a central midfielder, but can also play on the left and in an advanced central role.

Jankto scored on his international debut back in March and looks set for a bright career for club and country. Arsenal are keeping tabs on his progress, but it’s unknown whether they will make an official approach this summer.

The Gunners could well benefit from a player of his ability, given the likes of Jack Wilshere struggles for goals and assists despite being a highly creative midfielder. Mohamed Elneny doesn’t contribute either.

And with Santi Cazorla a risk given his injury woes of the last two years, it might be time to look to the future and procure a player who has shown he can score and create in a deep-lying role. Jankto is only 21 too.