Arsenal are watching Hamburg defender David Bates.

The Daily Record says the Scottish youth international has established himself as a key player for the Bundesliga 2 side since joining from Rangers on a free transfer in the summer.

Bates has featured eight times for the Red Shorts in the German second-tier, with the club sitting fourth in the table.

The Gunners are one of a number of Premier League clubs vying for his signature.

Among the sides competing with Arsenal to land the talented centre-back include Everton, Southampton, Leicester and Watford.

It has been reported that club scouts have been sent to watch Bates in action.