Arsenal are in transfer talks to sign Brian Lenihan (Picture: Cork City)

Arsenal have opened talks with Irish side Cork City over a deal to sign their talented young defender Brian Lenihan.

The 20-year-old has been extensively watched by Gunners scouts in the last few months, and after checking on the player during last week’s clash with Turner’s Cross, chief scout Steve Rowley has now given the go-ahead for a deal.

According to the Evening Echo, Arsenal have been preparing an offer for the last few days and have now opened talks with Cork over move.

Lenihan, who has been dubbed the new Seamus Coleman, is an exciting right-back who can also play at centre back or in central midfield.


Arsene Wenger is seemingly keen on the defender (Picture: Reuters)

He is a part of the Republic of Ireland Under-21 side and is being tipped for a big future at international level.

If a transfer can be agreed, he would likely battle with Carl Jenkinson for the right to be Arsenal’s deputy right-back, with the club set to bring in a big name to replace the departed Bacary Sagna.