Arsenal Transfer News: Bayern Munich Want Malcom in Latest Rumours

Bayern Munich are reportedly confident of beating Arsenal and Tottenham Hotspur to the signing of Bordeaux forward Malcom.

According to Tom Hopkinson of the Sunday People (h/t the Sunday Mirror), the German giants are confident of winning the race for the Brazilian, who was strongly linked with a move to both north London clubs in the January transfer window.

Hopkinson's piece suggested Bayern are considering long-term replacements for their evergreen wingers Arjen Robben and Franck Ribery and have subsequently identified Malcom as a target.

Per Hopkinson, Bordeaux opted against selling Malcom to either Arsenal or Spurs mid-season as they had been struggling for form in Ligue 1. However, they've since moved up the standings and sit in eighth position as things stand.

Malcom has been key to their positive moments so far this season, as he's dazzled from an advanced position on the right flank. However, it appears almost certain the winger will be lining up for a new club next year:

There will likely be a clamour to secure the signature of the 20-year-old, as few young players in the game can match him for raw ability.

Malcom is tremendous fun to watch, as he possesses the confidence always to be positive in possession in the final third. The Brazilian is happy to commit players, try risky passes and use his flair to get the better of opponents; when he puts everything together, he can be unstoppable.

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There have been clear developments in his decision-making this season, too, as Malcom has made tangible contributions to the Bordeaux cause. His long-range shooting, in particular, has been breathtaking at times; in Ligue 1 this term, he has already notched eight goals and six assists.

As relayed by the Scouted Football Twitter account, there are a number of different ways the youngster can get at a rival defence:

Arsenal strengthened their attack with the signings of Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Henrikh Mkhitaryan in January, although following the sales of Alexis Sanchez and Theo Walcott, they lack penetration from wide areas. Malcom would provide that.

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Bayern's interest also makes sense, as while Ribery and Robben both remain excellent footballers, given they're both 34 years old, a succession plan needs to be put in place by the Munich giants.

Both of their contracts are set to expire at the end of the season, too, and as relayed by DW Sports, Bayern sporting director Hasan Salihamidzic was non-committal when quizzed on their future last month:

Arsenal and Tottenham would both love to get Malcom on board, as he boasts all the tools needed to become a world-class operator in the future. However, going to Bayern and stepping into a potential gap left by one of two club icons would be a tempting prospect, too.

Indeed, the issue with a lot of young players moving to Munich is getting regular minutes. Although in the case of Malcom, there appears to be a clear path into the first team if he were to make the switch.