The Daily Star reckon Arsenal have had McNeil watched in recent weeks as he has continued to impress for Burnley.
The north Londoners have previously scoured foreign markets to sign rising stars, with Matteo Guendouzi and Lucas Torreira the latest acquisitions from that strategy.
But Unai Emery is changing tact, with domestic talents in his line of sight ahead of the summer transfer window.
It appears, though, that the Gunners are not the only club whose scouts have had their heads turned by McNeil’s performances.
Arsenal scouts sent on surprise mission as Unai Emery changes Gunners transfer strategy (Image: GETTY)
Arsenal scouts sent on surprise mission as Unai Emery changes Gunners transfer strategy (Image: GETTY)
Manchester City and Everton are also keeping tabs on McNeil, who looks to have helped Burnley secure another season of Premier League football.
Burnley beat relegation-threatened Cardiff 2-0 on Saturday to move on to 39 points and up to 14th in the table.
And McNeil’s showing will have caught the eye of Newcastle, who are now said to be interested in snapping him up as well.
McNeil is under contract at Burnley until 2023 having put pen to paper on a new deal back in January.
Any of his would-be suitors are likely to have to stump up the big bucks with the Clarets under no pressure to do business.
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Arsenal scouts sent on surprise mission as Unai Emery changes Gunners transfer strategy (Image: GETTY)
Arsenal scouts sent on surprise mission as Unai Emery changes Gunners transfer strategy (Image: GETTY)
McNeil is one of a number of midfield options Arsenal have got on their radar as Emery plans to freshen up his squad in the summer.
Scotland international Ryan Fraser admitted before Bournemouth’s win over Brighton, in which he impressed, that links with Arsenal were probably behind his recent drop off in form.
"Maybe it hasn't helped," Fraser said, when asked about the transfer speculation."Subconsciously you might think about it.
"I’m just trying to get on with my work. Every player says that. The best thing I can do is play well.
"I need to get back to scoring, assisting and winning and then what will be, will be. I love it here."