Everton risk losing one of their most promising young players Ryan Astley to Premier League rivals Arsenal.
According to a report from the Mirror, the Gunners are keeping tabs on the defender and could secure a deal with Everton yet to offer him professional terms at the club.
At the age of just 16, Astley remains on scholarship terms, with players traditionally signing professional deals when they turn 17.
While Astley remains on a scholarship deal at the club, Arsenal have a tremendous advantage in their hopes of landing the player.
Boasting one of the better academy structures in the Premier League, losing a player so highly rated would come as a huge blow to Everton.
Astley is a U19 Welsh international and has come in for some big praise from Under-23s coach David Unsworth, who has previously hailed the potential he possesses.
Everton would be entitled to compensation from Arsenal should Astley complete a move to London.
