Brentford's move for Arsenal striker Chuba Akpom could be in doubt after a serious knee injury to Theo Walcott.
The Bees are in advanced discussions to sign the highly-rated 18-year-old, as revealed last week by the Chronicle.
But with Walcott set for six months on the sidelines after rupturing his cruciate ligament, it is feared the Gunners could pull the plug on the deal and keep Akpom at the Emirates as cover.
Brentford boss Mark Warburton was in the stands as the youngster smashed a hat-trick in the north Londoners' 6-1 FA Youth Cup romp against Peterborough United last night.
Peterborough, Leyton Orient and MK Dons are also fighting it out for his signature, but the Bees remain front of the queue.
However, Arsenal may block a move for Akpom with their striking options limited following Walcott's injury.
