Leeds striker Harry Kewell is set to start talks with Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger this week, to discuss a possible move to Highbury.
Although Leeds have offered the 24-year-old what is understood to be a £2.5million-per-year pay package, making him the club's highest-paid player, they are resigned to the fact the lure of Champions League football is likely to prove too strong for ambitious Kewell, who has 12 months left on his current Leeds deal.
Arsenal are favourites to sign Kewell, although the Australia international winger is apparently monitoring the David Beckham situation to see if Manchester United show any interest should the England captain move on.
But it is Wenger leading the chase and he is set to meet with Kewell and advisor Bernie Mandic, who spoke with McKenzie about a new deal on Friday, at some point over the next few days.
Given Wenger's transfer funds are limited this summer, a player-plus cash deal for Kewell is preferable, with Jermaine Pennant the latest Gunner linked with a switch to Elland Road.
PA