Incoming chief scout Sven Mislintat plans to make Leon Goretzka his first signing at Arsenal.
Mislintat, dubbed 'diamond eye' at Borussia Dortmund, is moving to Arsenal in the coming days as his compensation fee is settled.
The 45 year-old talent spotter has already recommended a first signing - Schalke midfielder Goretzka.
The Germany international is off contract in June and preparing to leave S04. The youngster has attracted enquiries from Barcelona, but has informed his agents to only listen to offers from England.
AS says Mislintat has told Arsenal chiefs to do all they can to secure Goretzka's signature. And it could be his presence which sways the race in Arsenal's favour, with the club's growing German contingent sure to be a factor in the player's thinking.