According to Caught Offside, Arsenal are among several Premier League clubs closely monitoring highly rated Sturm Graz midfielder Luca Weinhandl ahead of the January transfer window. The 17-year-old has emerged as one of Europe’s most promising young talents following a series of impressive performances in Austria and in UEFA Champions League qualifying matches.Arsenal are said to face competition from both Brighton and Aston Villa, with scouts from all three clubs reportedly attending recent Sturm Graz matches to assess the teenager and compile detailed reports on his progress.The report states that Mikel Arteta and Arsenal’s recruitment team view Weinhandl as an ideal long-term addition to the club’s midfield pipeline. The Gunners have made youth recruitment a priority in recent years and are keen to move quickly when elite prospects become available. Initial contact is understood to have taken place, although discussions remain at an early stage.Sturm Graz reportedly accept that interest in their rising star will continue to grow, with a package worth around £17 million potentially enough to secure a deal. While the Austrian club are in no rush to sell, Arsenal are said to be optimistic about their chances should they decide to pursue the midfielder in January.The post Arsenal, Brighton and Aston Villa monitor Luca Weinhandl appeared first on SoccerNews.