Parma are closing in on the signing of Novara striker Alessio Da Cruz, according to SkySport24 (via GianlucaDiMarzio.com).
The former Dutch Under 18 international has been linked with Arsenal, among other Premier League teams, but it seems that he will remain in Italy to play in Serie B.
SkySport24 report that a €2million (£1.77m) deal is close to being finalised, with talks taking place between Da Cruz’s agent and Parma to thrash out personal terms.
The forward was reportedly scouted by Liverpool, Swansea City, Southampton and Brighton, while a number of Serie A teams were also monitoring the 2o year old.
Da Cruz signed for Novara on a free transfer from Eredivisie side FC Twente in the summer, and started the season in good goalscoring form.
However, the striker has not managed to hit the back of the net in his last five league outings, and his record this season is currently five goals in 19 appearances.