According to the Italian media outlets, Chelsea have to beat the competition from Arsenal in the race for highly-rated Genoa attacking midfielder Diego Laxalt, who has attracted the attention of several European top clubs due to his impressive form this season.

Arsene Wenger’s side are known for their philosophy of recruiting gifted young players on the cheap, and are willing to rival Chelsea for the signature the 23-year-old South American.

Laxalt, who already has made his debut Uruguay national team, has managed to score one goal and provided two assists for Genoa this season, and could now be snapped up by a bigger club.

As per the latest transfer news, Chelsea were taking a look at him as a possible replacement for Brazilian attacking midfielder Oscar. as he continues to be linked with a big money move to the Chinese Super League ahead of January transfer window.

However, the reports from Italian media outlet Tuttomercatoweb claim that the Gunners are also potential suitors for the versatile left-footer alongside Chelsea, with Arsene Wenger perhaps keen to improve his squad depth in the attacking midfield department.

The 23-year-old joined Inter Milan from Uruguayan outfit Defensor Sporting in 2013 and after enduring loan spells at Bologna, Empoli and Genoa, he joined the latter on a permanent basis earlier this year.

Laxalt is a left sided midfielder who also has experience of playing as a wing back.

Chelsea’s wing backs have been central to them mounting a 13 game unbeaten run in the Premier League but there is currently sparse backup for Marcos Alonso or Victor Moses.

Branislav Ivanovic’s days as a wide man are seemingly over while Cesar Azpilicueta is performing consistently at centre back.