Arsenal are preparing to launch a January bid for England Under-21 goalkeeper Jack Butland, according to the Daily Mail.
The Birmingham shot-stopper, who is currently out on loan at League Two side Cheltenham, has been watched regularly by Arsenal scouts this season.
Arsenal chief scout Steve Rowley and goalkeeping coach Gerry Payton took a closer look at the youngster when England Under-21’s thrashed Iceland 5-0 last Thursday. It is also believed both Arsenal representatives watched the 18-year-old in action again when Stuart Pearce’s side were beaten 2-1 by Belgian on Monday night.
Even though the youngster has not made a senior appearance for Birmingham, The Championship outfit showed their faith in Butland’s abilities by handing him a four-year-deal which expires in 2015.
However, despite the teenager signing a new deal with Birmingham, Arsenal are reportedly ready to make a move for the Butland in January.
But with Wojciech Szczesny viewed by Arsene Wenger and Gooners alike as Arsenal’s no.1 goalkeeper, Butland may deem a move to The Emirates at this particular time fruitless in terms of progression.
Vito Mannone, Manuel Almunia and second-choice shot-stopper Lukasz Fabianski are all keen to seal loan deals away from The Emirates in January, which may see Wenger step up his efforts to sign Butland.
Sunderland are also believed to be interested in Butland and have been linked with a £1 million winter move for the Birmingham keeper.
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