Bayer Leverkusen are reportedly hopeful of signing Arsenal striker Eddie Nketiah on a free transfer in the summer.

The 22-year-old is now free to begin negotiations with foreign clubs after entering the final six months of his deal with Mikel Arteta's side.

The Gunners boss has made no secret of his desire to retain Nketiah's services, but the striker is believed to have rebuffed Arsenal's attempts to tie him down to a new deal amid concerns over his lack of game time.

Crystal Palace have been strongly linked with a move for Nketiah, but according to The Sun, Bayer Leverkusen are hoping to win the race for his signature.

The report claims that the Bundesliga outfit intend to strike a pre-contract agreement with Nketiah this month before the former England Under-21 international joins upon the expiration of his Arsenal contract in July.

Nketiah has scored five goals in three EFL Cup appearances this season but has been a bit-part player in the Premier League, making just three substitute appearances in the 2021-22 season.