Brighton make approach for Arsenal's rising star despite interest from European rivals

Brighton and Hove Albion have joined Chelsea in the race to land Arsenal hotshot Khayon Edwards.

The 18-year-old has been in flying form for the Gunners so far this season, scoring 17 goals and registering six assists in 22 appearances for the academy. Edwards has led the line for the under-18s for most of this campaign – scoring 16 at that level – but has also made two appearances for the under-23s.

The youngster's performances have caught the eye of several top clubs and can reveal that Brighton are among the admiring parties and have enquired about bringing the Englishman to the South Coast. Of course, the north Londoners are hoping that they can persuade the exciting prospect to remain at the club and sign his first professional deal.

According to Football.London, Chelsea have been keeping tabs on Edwards. European giants Feyenoord, RB Leipzig and Hertha Berlin have also been linked with the striker.

But Graham Potter will be hoping that the Seagulls' reputation for signing young talents and giving them the opportunity to thrive in their first team proves persuasive. Former Chelsea defender Tariq Lamptey and 20-year-old Moises Caicedo are two recent examples of how the club are bearing the fruit of their low-risk recruitment strategy.

And Arsenal will be hoping that Edwards isn’t another name that will be added to Brighton’s list of young stars, especially given their current striker situation. Mikel Arteta’s side are expected to be in the market for a centre forward in the summer as they are prepare to lose Alexandre Lacazette and Eddie Nketiah – who are both out of the contract at the end of the season.

Folarin Balogun will be an option once he returns from his loan move from Middlesbrough, though he hasn’t