Arsenal close to £4.4m deal for wonderkid Maximiliano Romero

"Talks with Arsenal are at an advanced stage," Romero is quoted as telling TyC Sports in Argentina.

"It is an immense joy that has appeared in my life. We must begin to learn English."

Velez president Raul Gamez said: "They have made an offer for Maxi Romero. I don't want to talk figures just yet, but it's a big offer."

Romero, 16, will see out another two years with Velez until he reaches 18 when he would then move to London, according to the Argentine website Infobae.

Romero has yet to appear in a league match for Velez.

WATCH MAXI ROMERO IN ACTION BELOW

"Maxi has huge potential," agent Rolando Zarate is quoted as saying. "I went to London to talk about Arsenal's offer, and then took it back to (Velez president) Raul Gamez.

"Arsenal agreed to our main terms: that the player remains at Velez for two more years. Maxi is going to complete his apprenticeship at a great club like Velez."

Zarate claims to have spoken twice to Arsene Wenger in London.

"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."