ARSENAL and Everton have moved towards the head of a long queue of high-profile clubs hoping to sign Ajax striker Patrick Kluivert.

AC Milan and Barcelona have already confirmed they would like to sign a player who reaches his 21st birthday in July. The most intriguing aspect of Kluivert's impending departure from the club that carefully nurtured his talents is that he will leave Amsterdam on a free transfer under the Bosman ruling.

However, any club wanting him will need a healthy bank balance. No doubt aware he is now the most coveted young player in world football, Kluivert is believed to be seeking a four-year deal worth £10 million, or £50,000 a week.

Despite those seemingly prohibitive figures Arsenal and Everton retain an interest, although Liverpool - wealthy and long-term admirers - have now surprisingly dropped out of any auction.