Arsenal to beat Chelsea to the signing of Premier League assist machine?

Arsenal are reportedly leading Chelsea in the race to sign midfielder Ryan Fraser from Bournemouth at the end of the season.

The Scotland international has enjoyed a standout campaign with the Cherries this term, and he has racked seven and 13 assists in the Premier League.

According to Metro, the north London giants are keeping a close watch on the proceedings of the former Aberdeen man, who is currently the joint-highest assist-maker alongside Eden Hazard in the current campaign.

The playmaker has already turned down the option of signing a new contract with the South Coast outfit, and reports indicate that he is expected to be sold with his current deal expiring in 14 months' time.

London rivals Chelsea are also in the running to sign the in-form ace, but their prospects look slim at the moment due to a two-window transfer ban imposed on them by FIFA.

The Blues have already made an appeal over the same to FIFA but they have yet to receive the outcome. The Capital side are bracing themselves for the potential departure of Eden Hazard this summer.