Chelsea have reportedly pipped Arsenal to the signature of West Bromwich Albion teenage star Isaiah Brown.

The midfielder made his Premier League debut for the Baggies last season but wanted a move away from the Hawthorns this summer. The Gunners have been monitoring the 16-year-old for some time but the Blues have now moved swiftly to land the highly-rated youngster on a lucrative long-term deal, according to the Mirror.

Isaiah Brown
West Brom

Brown operates mainly as a central midfielder but is versatile and can be deployed in a variety of other positions. The report claims West Brom are furious at losing their academy's brightest asset to a Premier League rival and will seek substantial compensation from Chelsea at an independent tribunal.

Brown has represented England at U-16 and U-17 levels and has been touted as uture regular of the senior squad.

Meanwhile, West Brom are reportedly considering bringing former Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka back to England this summer.

The Birmingham Mail reports the 34-year-old is looking for a new club, after failing to impress Juventus in his six-month loan spell during the second half of last season. The Frenchman had already fallen out with his parent club, Shanghai Shenhua, due to wage-related issues and it is understood that the Chinese outfit are open to letting the player leave in this window.

Baggies boss Steve Clarke knows Anelka from their time together at Chelsea and the report states the manager is now considering a short-term move for the striker. West Brom have been in the market for a forward, with last season's star Romelu Lukaku returning to parent club Chelsea and Peter Odemwingie remaining out-of-favour, after trying to force through a transfer to QPR in January.

Bookmakers Sky Bet, have made West Brom favourites to be Anelka's next club. The former France international has also played for Arsenal, Liverpool, Manchester City and Bolton Wanderers in England.