Oxlade-Chamberlain travelled to the Emirates Stadium for the medical today, Press Association Sport understands.

A fee of £12million is reported to have been agreed for the England under-21 international.

Oxlade-Chamberlain, contracted at Southampton until 2013, is regarded as one of England's most promising young footballers.

The 17-year-old played a key role in helping Southampton secure promotion to the Championship last season, firing nine goals in 34 appearances.

Known for his pace and ability to beat defenders, he can operate on either side of the pitch.

His style has invited comparisons with Theo Walcott, who also left Saints for Arsenal, though Oxlade-Chamberlain is a better defender who is comfortable in central midfield as well as out wide.

Manchester United and Liverpool have also expressed interest in the Southampton academy product, but Arsenal appear to have pulled off something of a transfer coup.