Arsenal and Chelsea Chase Republic of Ireland Midfielder - Report

Arsenal and Chelsea are set for summer battle as both the London clubs are eyeing for a move to sign Wigan Athletic star James McCarthy, according to the Independent. The 22-year-old has been a regular inclusion in the Latics starting lineup and has been in impressive form for his side, despite Wigan currently struggling to stay in the Premier League.

The report claims the Republic of Ireland international is set for a summer exit as McCarthy is looking for a move away from the DW Stadium. Both Arsenal and Chelsea are looking to bring in fresh legs to strengthen their midfield at the end of the season. Arsene Wenger and the west London club are set for summer battle for Wigan star's services.

Scouts from a host of top flight clubs have been monitoring McCarthy in action this season. The player himself is aware of the rumours linking him with a move away from Wigan and had earlier hinted he could leave his current employers in the summer.

"I have been linked with clubs here and there but I will keep working hard and see what the end of the season brings. Obviously, it's good to see your name linked with big clubs, certain clubs, it' s always nice but I am still a Wigan player and I will keep playing for Wigan until the end of the season," McCarthy said.

Meanwhile, the former Republic of Ireland international Ray Houghton believes the time is right for the midfielder to make a move to the top clubs in the summer.

"He's at a good age now. He's probably at a stage now where he might need to move on to improve," Houghton told the Independent.

Roberto Martinez's men are currently 18 in the Premier League table with 35 points from 35 games, trailing the three teams above them by three points. With three games remaining in the season for Wigan, finishing the season by avoiding relegation would be kee for the Latics.

Should Wigan fail to stay in the Premier League next season, it will be difficult for Martinez to keep McCarthy at the DW Stadium. Meanwhile, Chelsea and Arsenal will face competition in landing the midfielder as Manchester United and Liverpool are also keen on signing the Latics star in the summer.