Chelsea starlet Charly Musonda is a surprise target of Premier League rivals Arsenal. The playmaker joined Chelsea from Anderlecht in 2012, and has impressed enough to make his name as one of the brightest prospects in the Chelsea academy.

Musonda has been linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge this summer, particularly with a loan deal. This is for him to have more time playing first-team football, so he can eventually step up for the Blues in the near future. So far many European clubs have been linked with Musonda on a loan deal, including the likes of Monaco and Marseille. His father admitted earlier in the month that his son needs to leave Chelsea as soon as possible.

His father said: “Charly must absolutely leave Chelsea and, since January, Monaco have been trying to sign him.”

However, it has now emerged that the 19-year-old is a target of Arsenal’s and the club have already submitted an £8.5m bid for the youngster. It is reported that Chelsea have no interest in selling the Belgium Under-21 international and will only listen to offers that include a loan deal.

There are claims that Musonda is set to join Marseille on a loan deal, after rejecting a loan move to Vitesse Arnhem. But Arsenal’s interest in the youngster, who is contracted to Chelsea until 2019, is very solid.

Musonda is yet to play in the first team for Chelsea, and he is said to be raring for the chance.

The starlet had this to say on reports linking him with a move away:

“I’m also well aware of the news, nothing has been done yet.”

“I will reflect personally with my family and agent and come to a conclusion that hopefully benefits the continuity of my progression.”

“I’m looking forward to playing football next year.”