Arsenal 'near deal for Barcelona wonderkid Joel Lopez'

Arsenal are reportedly nearing a deal for Barcelona youngster Joel Lopez.

The 15-year-old has been with the Catalan giants since the age of seven, and is highly regarded at Camp Nou.

However, according to Goal.com, Arsenal have convinced the left-back to sign schoolboy terms with the Gunners before penning a professional contract when he turns 16 next March.

Cesc Fabregas and Hector Bellerin are among those that have moved to Arsenal from Barcelona in similar circumstances in recent years, and it is understood that the London club have beaten Premier League rivals Liverpool to Lopez's signature.

Meanwhile, Arsenal are reportedly on the verge of appointing former Paris Saint-Germain boss Unai Emery as their new manager on a long-term contract.