Arsenal are ready to make an opening offer for Crystal Palace whizkid Wilfried Zaha in January.

The Daily Mail says former assistant manager Pat Rice - who still works for the club - and chief scout Steve Rowley have both watched the £20million forward in recent weeks and reported back to Wenger with glowing reviews.

Arsenal will make a starting offer of £9million when the transfer window reopens in January, but Eagles chairman Steve Parish will not let his prized-asset leave without a fight.