Arsenal '˜trigger buy-out clause' for Jamie Vardy

Arsenal have triggered a buy-out clause in the contract of Sheffield-born striker Jamie Vardy, according to reports.

The Guardian last night reported Arsenal were ready to prise the forward away from Premier League champions Leicester City in a deal worth around £20m.

Leicester are ready to put up a fight for Vardy, who is currently on England duty for Euro 2016.

The former Sheffield Wednesday trainee signed an improved three-and-a-half year contract in February and is seen as a vital figure at the King Power Stadium by Leicester’s Thai owners and boss Claudio Ranieri.

Leicester could offer Vardy fresh terms, according to the report, in a bid to keep him at the club after he netted 24 Premier League goals last season.

But at 29, the ex-Stocksbridge Park Steels forward could have been presented with his final opportunity to play for one of England and Europe’s major powers – despite them finishing behind the Foxes last season.

Vardy’s rise has been meteoric after being snapped up by Leicester from non-league Fleetwood Town only four years ago.

He is expected to play a major role for England during Euro 2016, with their campaign beginning next Saturday.