ARSENAL have been pipped by Manchester United to the signing of French wonderkid Jeremy Helen, according to reports in France.

Arsene Wenger is said to be a big fan of the 15-year-old full-back, but the player's mother has revealed that her son prefers a move to Old Trafford.

"To him, Manchester offers the best career path," Helan's mother said on Monday.

"Inter, Newcastle, Arsenal, Real Madrid and Everton also contacted him."

Rennes are keen to keep hold of the young prodigy, although the club's general manager Pierre Derossi said they will consider United's offer.

"The player is keen to go to Manchester United and they have made us an offer," he said.

"We will think about it and see whether we will consider it, but we will defend our interests."