ARSENAL have joined Tottenham in the hunt for Crystal Palace wonderkid John Bostock after the player's professional contract expired last week.

Bostock (pictured) was thought to be on his way to Spurs, with Chelsea, Barcelona and Manchester United also all interested.

But it appears that Arsene Wenger will make a late attempt to hijack the move.

Palace chairman Simon Jordan is understood to be annoyed at Bostock for stalling over signing a new deal.

Now the midfielder could be allowed to leave the club for minimal compensation if he decides not to sign.