Report: Arsenal pondering summer move for Riyad Mahrez

Despite being in contention for its first Premier League title in 12 years, Arsenal is already laying down its transfer strategy for the summer and has apparently identified Riyad Mahrez as one of its chief targets.

The winger's dazzling feet and frightening pace has been one of the enduring images of the campaign, and according to ESPN FC's Peter O'Rourke, the Gunners are set to test Leicester City's resolve should the Algerian be open to a move from the King Power Stadium.

Mahrez, 25, was signed by the Foxes in 2014 from Le Havre for a paltry £400,000, but his performances - he has plundered 14 goals and 10 assists for Claudio Ranieri's side - and the fact that he signed fresh terms at the start of the season to tie him to the club until 2019 means he will dictate a much higher transfer fee.

The Algerian isn't short of admirers, with other European football luminaries such as Manchester United, Barcelona, and Real Madrid taking note of his breathtaking displays.

Ranieri has previously stated that he wouldn't stand in Mahrez's way if he decides his future lies away from Leicester.

The east Midlands outfit's last-gasp win against Norwich City on Saturday means it still has a two-point cushion over Tottenham Hotspur atop the division. It faces the visit of West Bromwich Albion on Tuesday.