Arsenal are one of the “leading contenders” to sign River Plate winger Ian Subiabre, according to reports in Argentina.

Soydelmillo.com claim that the Gunners and Chelsea have been sending scouts to watch the 18-year-old in action over the past couple of weeks.

It is believed observers from both London clubs were spotted watching Subiabre when he came on as a substitute in two Copa Libertadores group games.

The teenager played the final 10 minutes of River Plate’s 1-0 win over Universitario de Deportes before making another cameo appearance during the 0-0 draw against Barcelona SC six days later.

Subiabre has a release clause in his contract

One of the reasons why Arsenal and Chelsea have been keeping close tabs on the Argentinian Under-20 international is the existence of a buyout fee.

Soydelmillo.com report that Subiabre can be signed by any team for €30m (£26m) this summer due to a clause in his contract.

Arsenal’s plans to sign the youngster could be scuppered

Subiabre’s parents are said to be aware of the interest from European teams but they are not keen on their son leaving his home at such an early stage of his career.

Talks over a new contract are expected to begin over the coming months, and it is likely that the player’s release fee will increase significantly if he signs an extension.

It should be pointed out that Subiabre has only made 12 senior appearances so far, scoring 1 goal and contributing 0 assists. It is, therefore, understandable why his family feel that his development would be better served by remaining at River Plate.

The interest in the forward does, though, demonstrate that the Gunners are keeping an eye on the next big thing to come out of South America.

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