Arsenal are remaining tight-lipped over reports they have clinched a £12m deal to sign Alex Chamberlain.

National newspaper reports suggested that Saints had agreed to sell their 17-year-old winger to the Gunners, with Chamberlain set to be officially unveiled on July 1 after he returns from holiday.

Arsenal though have declined to comment and are keeping their cards close to their chest.

The rumours are hardly surprising given not only the level of Premier League interest in signing Chamberlain but also the recent comments of his father, Mark, who admitted he wanted his son to join the Gunners as soon as possible.

It is believed that Saints are realistic over Chamberlain’s future.

They would like to keep the youngster as he would be a huge asset in the upcoming Championship campaign.

But in reality it is hard to keep players when the likes of Manchester United and Arsenal are circling.

Full story in today's Daily Echo