Football Club

ARSENAL are monitoring France Under-21 international striker Emmanuel Riviere to see if he is capable of following in the footsteps of childhood idol Thierry Henry.

Riviere is one of the most highly-rated young players in France after saving St Etienne from relegation with eight goals in just 19 starts last season.

The 20-year-old forward, who was born on the Caribbean island of Martinique, homeland of Henry’s mother, has one year left on his contract and is desperate to join the Gunners.

“Arsenal would really be the jewel in the crown for me,” said Riviere. “They play a fast-moving, attacking style of football, and they’re always shooting on goal.

“It’s fantastic.

“I respect Thierry Henry for who he is, he has always inspired me.”

Arsenal face competition from Lyon, Marseille and Juventus for the £5million-rated youngster.