Amid interest from a host of top Premier League clubs, Ryan Sessegnon says former Southampton pair Luke Shaw and Gareth Bale are his footballing idols.

Sessegnon is still just 17 years old, but he’s up to 67 appearances for Fulham, scoring 20 goals and providing eight assists.

Many of those goal contributions have come in recent weeks, with nine goal and two assists in his last 11 games. As a result, a number of big clubs are following the youngster.

When the Telegraph asked the Fulham man who he idolises, his answer was somewhat surprising.

“Luke Shaw,” he answered. “When I was younger I had two players: Luke Shaw and Gareth Bale. When Shaw was at Southampton he was a left-back and I loved watching him bomb up and down the wing, create goals, score goals. I think I try to emulate that. Gareth Bale same thing really.”

Shaw is only 22 years old himself, and hasn’t had the best time since moving to Manchester United. Still, the fact he moved to such a big club at a very young age could provide the blueprint for Sessegnon to follow.

In November, the media suggested that United were one of the teams scouting the youngster. The reports also mentioned Arsenal, Chelsea, Liverpool and Spurs, which is quite the list.

Unfortunately, it looks like United might have an edge now, along with Spurs thanks to their Bale connection.

If Arsenal really do want to sign him though, they can probably offer the most game time.

Nacho Monreal is getting older and struggling with injuries, and Sead Kolašinac isn’t in favour with Arsene Wenger who will probably still be at Arsenal when Sessegnon retires.