Arsenal are close to completing the signing of Sunderland youngster Sam Greenwood, according to ESPN.

Greenwood has turned down a new contract at Sunderland and looks set to move on with a host of teams chasing his signature.

But Arsenal appear to be the favourites to sign the young forward, ahead of Premier League rivals Manchester United and Bundesliga side Stuttgart.

The 16-year-old is a very highly rated young player who netted 21 goals in 26 games for Sunderland's under-16 and under-18 teams last year.

Sunderland were hoping to keep their talented teenager on their books but he is closing in on a switch to Arsenal.

The England under-16 international has been identified as a major target for Arsenal's youth system, as they hope to strengthen their academy options.

The Gunners are in pole position to complete this signing with Sunderland owed a compensation fee for their part in his development.

The Verdict

Greenwood is a prolific young striker and he has a bright future ahead of him.

This is such an important career move for him to make at such a young age, but the coaching he will receive at Arsenal could be the making of him.

Sunderland will be disappointed to lose him because he was a future first-team star but he has clearly made his decision and wants out.

Sunderland fans - What do you make of this? Let us know below...