Arsenal move ahead of Liverpool in race to sign ex-Manchester United star: Reports

Arsenal are leading Liverpool in the race to sign Angel Gomes, according to Caught Offside. The English midfielder has caught the eye since arriving at Lille a few summers ago.

The 24-year-old finished last campaign with two goals and ten assists from 45 games across competitions for the Ligue 1 side. His efforts have apparently earned him admirers at multiple clubs across Europe, including the Gunners and the Merseysiders.

Gomes rose through the ranks at Manchester United but left in 2020 after failing to break into the first team. He has since established himself at Stade Pierre-Mauroy and is now a first-team regular.

Arsenal are reportedly keeping a close eye on his situation, along with Liverpool, Juventus, Napoli, Borussia Dortmund, Newcastle United and Aston Villa. Gomes has appeared 119 times for the French giants, scoring eight goals and setting up 18 more.

While the player is yet to comment on the situation, he might be open to a new adventure if a big club comes calling. Interestingly, the Englishman has entered the final year of his contract and is yet to sign a new deal.

Lille have no desire to let him go and have already offered to extend his stay at the club until 2029. However, the player is assessing his options before making a commitment.

Gomes would be a valuable addition to both Arsenal and Liverpool

Liverpool are preparing to usher in a new era under Arne Slot, who took charge at Anfield this summer following Jurgen Klopp's exit. The Reds have started well under the Dutchman, who made just two signings this summer.

The Merseyside club roped in Federico Chiesa and Giorgi Mamardashvili to strengthen their squad. However, Liverpool are already planning for 2025 and have their eyes on Gomes. The Englishman's contract situation also makes him an enticing prospect for the Anfield hierarchy.

However, the Reds have now dropped behind Arsenal in the race for the former Manchester United man. The Gunners have reportedly accelerated their interest in Gomes following the recent injury to midfielder Martin Odegaard. Mikel Arteta is convinced that the Englishman can be a valuable addition to his squad.

Interestingly, Juventus, Borussia Dortmund and Napoli are apparently planning to move for the 24-year-old at the turn of the year.

Unless Gomes signs a new deal, he could strike a pre-agreement with a suitor in the January transfer window. As such, Arsenal and Liverpool will have to make a move soon if they want to get their man.