Arsenal could reportedly beat Tottenham to the signing of Bordeaux forward Malcom, as they’re willing to pay more money in January.

It seems like Malcom could be the one to replace Alexis Sanchez. There was plenty of noise about his potential arrival over the weekend, with reports claiming that his agent was in England to finalise a deal.

According to the Independent, Arsenal will beat off any competition as they’re willing to pay more to sign him. They report that Tottenham are also interested, but can only afford £31m for the 20-year-old. Bordeaux want £44.5m, and while Arsenal won’t pay that much, they’re willing to offer £40m.

The Independent say Malcom had been offered to clubs for just £16m last summer but didn’t attract any bidders. His form this season, which has seen him score seven goals for a struggling Bordeaux, sees that price tag shoot up.

Malcom is apparently well-liked by our Head of Recruitment, Sven Mislintat. The former Borussia Dortmund transfer expert wanted his old club to sign the Brazilian while he was still at the club. If all goes to plan, he’ll be able to see him perform in an Arsenal shirt instead.