Arsenal Face Tough Task To Attract Barcelona Whiz Kid Gai Assulin

Arsenal are keeping tabs on Barcelona teenager Gai Assulin and could make a move for the Israeli youngster at the end of the current season, according to a report in The Sun.

The Gunners have successfully dipped into the Blaugrana's youth team before, having landed Cesc Fabregas and Fran Merida, but they will not find this move so easy.

Gai has become the latest starlet touted for success at Camp Nou and he has already tasted life at the top as coach Pep Guardiola looks to give all his highly-rated youngsters the chance to prove themselves.

The 18-year-old Israel international made his first-team debut against Cultural in the Copa del Rey at the end of last month.

That promotion has given Gai the confidence to believe he can follow the likes of Lionel Messi, Sergio Busquets and Pedro in earning a place in Guardiola's squad.

Arsene Wenger has received impressive scouting reports on the youngster but knows that he is too old to sign on a free and that Guardiola is far more protective of Barca youth products than previous coaches at the club.