Mikel Arteta could make another Arsenal signing if Nicolas Pepe completes an exit with a transfer being negotiated
Mikel Arteta still has several more transfer decisions to make this summer despite the fact the bulk of Arsenal's business has already been completed. The Gunners have welcomed Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice on permanent deals with David Raya arriving on a season-long loan from Brentford.
Both Rice and Havertz have endured positive starts at their new club, however Raya is yet to make his debut with Timber unlikely to play again until mid-2024 after suffering a knee injury. That diagnosis has forced Arteta and Edu to look at potential replacements with Jules Kounde, Benjamin Pavard, Mohamed Simakan and Kyle Walker-Peters just some of the names linked.
However, before any official move is made, Arteta must make two major decisions. Firstly, the Arsenal boss could deem he already has the necessary options to deal with Timber's injury, however if he decides a new signing is needed, with Timber's versatility, how Arteta wants to use that potential addition must be figured out.
Despite the blow of losing the Netherlands international, the priority is still on sealing exits with Folarin Balogun and Kieran Tierney as a duo who could raise significant funds for the Gunners if sold. Balogun has interest from Chelsea, Tottenham and now Fulham, but AS Monaco are best-placed to sign him.
According to RMC journalist Fabrice Hawkins, an unnamed Saudi Arabian club are planning to make a move for the 28-year-old with Arsenal 'negotiating a transfer fee.' Pepe's move to Besiktas fell through earlier this month but fresh talks advancing for a potential new destination could open the door for Arsenal to welcome a new attacker in his position.
Much has been said about the need to sign an adequate Bukayo Saka back up and with Mohammed Kudus still on the market, the Gunners could make a late move to sign him. Brighton and West Ham are also chasing his signature with both clubs launching bids, while Chelsea could turn to the Ghana international in an attempt to bolster their attack.
However, while nothing has been agreed, there is still always hope Arsenal can leapfrog their Premier League rivals and sign Kudus. West Ham saw a €42million (£35.9m) package turned down earlier this week with Ajax upping their demands now the Eredivisie season has begun with his asking price now likely between £45-£50million.
0 Comments