Arsenal FC transfer report: Gunners step up interest in Belgian youngster Bjorn Engels

Arsenal have stepped up their interest in Club Brugge defender Bjorn Engels.

The Gunners, along with Everton, have been strongly linked with a move for the Belgium international, whose performances this season have earned rave reviews around Europe.

Engels has spoken of his admiration for the Premier League, opening the door for a potential summer switch to England.

And Arsenal are paying close attention to the 22-year-old centre-back, sending scouts to watch him in action against Zulte Waregem on Monday, according to Belgian outlet Voetbal Krant.

The defender is a product of Club Brugge's youth set-up and made his senior debut for them in the Europa League as a raw 17-year-old.

The Belgium giants look like they will now have to fend off interest for Engels in the summer transfer window, with the player's contract running for another three years.