The summer transfer window may still be months away from being opened officially for business, but clubs are already making moves and identifying their key targets ahead of the window opening in a few months. One of such clubs is English Premier League outfit Arsenal, who, according to reports, have identified Sporting Lisbon starlet Tiago Tomas as a possible signing in the summer.

Tomas is still only 18 years of age but has already caught the attention of a host of top clubs across Europe, including Arsenal, with club director Edu and manager Mikel Arteta looking to snap him up ahead of other interested clubs. Both Edu and Arteta were present at Sporting Lisbon’s most recent league game against bitter rivals Benfica and the purpose of their attendance was to watch Tomas in action.

The Portugal Under-19 star only made his way to the Sporting first team last season and has now cemented his place in the starting XI after some incredible performances under his manager Ruben Amorim. His impressive form has also seen him score four goals already this season – a fascinating piece of statistics for a defender.

And now, The Sun are reporting that Arsenal technical director Edu was happy with the young defender’s performance and has in fact put his name on the list of his potential signings in the summer. The Sun’s report claims that both Arsenal and Sporting have had talks that are now at an advanced stage for the player and the fee touted to be enough for him to finalize his move to The Emirates is £20 million. That’s a massive steal given that the player’s release clause is a hefty £52 million. Regardless, Arsenal will want to complete the deal on time for the brilliant defender.