Arsenal are gearing up for a pivotal summer in the transfer market, with manager Mikel Arteta intent on bolstering the squad in a bid to secure long-awaited silverware. Despite the Gunners appearing poised to challenge on multiple fronts last season, a spate of injuries to key players hampered their aspirations of claiming major honours. This summer, Arteta has set his sights on injecting more goals and creativity into his team. Reports from football.london indicate that the Spaniard is keen to wrap up transfer dealings promptly, allowing the north London outfit to seize early opportunities in the market.
Gyokeres Opts for Arsenal
According to The Times, Viktor Gyokeres has expressed a preference for joining Arsenal over Manchester United. The Swedish forward, currently with Sporting, arrived at this conclusion following initial discussions with the Red Devils. While this development strengthens Arsenal’s hand in landing Gyokeres, the club remains undecided between him and Benjamin Sesko. Arteta is reportedly a keen admirer of the RB Leipzig striker, with whom Arsenal was close to signing last year.
Arsenal Encouraged to Pursue Manchester City’s Phil Foden
Tony Cascarino, speaking on talkSPORT, opines that Arsenal stand a stronger chance of acquiring Phil Foden rather than Jack Grealish from Manchester City. The ex-Chelsea forward remarked, “I reckon Foden is far more likely. Mikel Arteta’s previous collaboration with Foden at City could play a role, and the youngster’s form hasn’t hit the heights expected this season. Given Manchester City’s heavy spending, it’s conceivable they might consider offloading Foden. Whether City would sanction a move to Arsenal is another matter, but they’ve already permitted Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko to head to the Emirates. If Foden were available, Arteta would undoubtedly contemplate bringing him on board.” However, football.london cautions: “Phil Foden might not necessarily slot into Arsenal’s starting lineup readily. He’s adept on the left though Gabriel Martinelli is a formidable presence there. He could fit centrally, but it’s improbable that Arteta would bench his captain. Needless to say, Bukayo Saka remains unchallenged on the right flank.”
Nico Williams Engages in Transfer Discussions
Per the Daily Mail, Nico Williams has been involved in transfer talks with both Barcelona and Bayern Munich as he considers a move from Athletic Club. The 22-year-old winger is reportedly willing to accept a salary reduction to facilitate his departure. Football Spectator understands that Arsenal have long held an interest in Williams, who caught Mikel Arteta’s attention well before his Euros emergence last year.
READ MORE FOOTBALL TRANSFER NEWS: