Arsenal are reportedly ready to activate the £41m release clause in the contract of Sporting Lisbon winger Joelson Fernandes.

The 17-year-old's performances at Under-23 level are understood to have drawn the attention of a number of Europe's top clubs, including Barcelona and Juventus.

Fernandes became the youngest player in Sporting history earlier this season and has gone on to make three substitute appearances for the first team so far.

Portuguese outlet A Bola reports that Arsenal are leading the race for his signature and are considering an imminent £41m bid in order to trigger his release clause.

Fernandes is represented by agent Kia Joorabchian, who has worked closely with Arsenal director Edu in the past.

The teenage winger has drawn comparisons with Cristiano Ronaldo, who also came through the ranks at Sporting, although the financial knock-on effect of the coronavirus pandemic could harm Arsenal's chances of stumping up the required amount of cash for his signature.