There are reports that Chelsea and Manchester City have joined Arsenal in the race to sign Portuguese prodigy Joelson Fernandes.

The Sporting Lisbon starlet, 17, has been dubbed the next Cristiano Ronaldo due to his phenomenal wing-wizardry.

Under-17 international Joelson made his Primeira Liga debut for Sporting in June and has a £41million release clause in his contract.

Arsenal have just had a second offer of £29m turned down by Sporting officials after failing with an £18m opening bid.

The Gunners are expected to test the Lisbon club’s resolve with an improved offer later this week, with boss Mikel Arteta eager to land the teenager.

But reports in Portugal claim both Chelsea and City have contacted Joelson’s advisor Kia Joorabchian to discuss potential deals.

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