He has just celebrated his 16th birthday, has yet to make his top-flight debut, but already he has several heavyweight European clubs interested in him.

His name is Maximiliano Romero and in Argentina he is considered one of the country's rising stars. He was born on 9th January 1999, is a centre-forward and a massive Falcao fan.

Despite not yet making his competitive top flight debut at Vélez Sarsfield, Romero completed pre-season training with the first team in January, and even scored a couple of goals in friendlies. Maxi's reputation stems mainly from his shining performances for Vélez's youth academy. Arsenal have been interested for several months now, and it looks as though a deal might be struck later this month.

According to several media sources in Argentina, the English side have offered €6 million for 80% of Maximiliano Romero's image rights. The player would remain at Vélez for a couple more years before moving to England. "Talks with Arsenal are at an advanced stage", said the youngster.

'The Gunners' are sending an expedition to Argentina next week to meet with the player, his club (Vélez) and his agent (former footballer Rolando 'Roly' Zárate). Vélez Sarsfield president, Raúl Gámez has warned that a deal has not yet been done: "They have made an offer for Maxi Romero. I don't want to talk figures just yet, but it's a big offer".

The player's agent, Rolando Zárate told 'TyC Sports' how Arsenal's interest came about: "Maxi has huge potential. I went to London to talk about Arsenal's offer, and then took it back to Raúl Gámez (Vélez's president). Arsenal agreed to our main terms: that the player remains at Vélez for two more years. Maxi is going to complete his apprenticeship at a great club like Vélez. I met with Arsene Wenger twice in London. I negotiated with him and then with his assistants. They heard about Maxi Romero through their scouts in America. He was the player who most impressed them".