Gunners in for Italian sensation and other red-hot gossip

Arsenal have emerged as favourites to sign exciting Inter Milan and Italian under-21 international Mario Balotelli. According to reports, the 19-year-old's agent on Wednesday ruled out a move to AC Milan. The Gunners now head the queue for the £15m-valued striker. Elsewhere, Chelsea want Everton duo Steven Pienaar and Jack Rodwell, and will undertake a summer clear-out to raise funds for the transfers; Albert Riera's proposed switch from Liverpool to Spartak Moscow has stalled after the 27-year-old winger failed to agree personal terms; Arsenal have made a £9m offer for Real Zaragoza's 20-year-old midfielder Ander Herrera; Didier Drogba is a major doubt for Chelsea's top-of-the-table EPL showdown against Manchester United on Saturday; and Liverpool boss manager Rafa Benitez has not ruled out Alberto Aquilani missing the rest of the season with an ankle injury.