Arsenal are facing a battle to sign Bayern Munich defender Chris Richards.

The Mirror were th first with a story linking the Gunners with the centre-back.

Now Chelsea, Barcelona and Valencia are chasing after the 20-year-old versatile defender, according to Bild.

Richards can also play right back, and has scored two goals in 22 games playing in Germany's third tier this season. He also has 12 United States Under-20s caps.

Arsenal will have to prove to Richards they can provide him with adequate game time, which could also be an issue for Barcelona.

It leaves Valencia in the best position to push ahead with a deal for the player.