Report claims Crystal Palace face competition from Bundesliga outfit for Arsenal striker

Crystal Palace target Eddie Nketiah has reportedly opened talks with Bayer Leverkusen over a pre-contract agreement.

Lewisham-born Nketiah is out of contract at the end of the season at Arsenal and the Eagles have been linked with a move for him.

The former England U21 international has struggled for minutes under Mikel Arteta this season but has impressed in the EFL Cup with five goals in three games for Arsenal.

The Mail are reporting that the Bundesliga outfit have set their sights on the 22-year-old.

The publication adds that if Palace want to sign Nketiah, they will have to brace themselves for a battle with Leverkusen for the Englishman’s signature.

The South London club’s rivals Brighton & Hove Albion and West Ham United have previously been linked for a move for the Gunners forward.