Guimaraes agreement reached as Arteta moves to offer key man for top attacking target

By Danong 

Arsenal are finally set to approach Newcastle United as they push on with their pursuit of Bruno Guimaraes.

According to Fabrizio Romano, personal terms are already agreed; now all that remains is a club‑to‑club agreement before the Brazilian midfielder swaps St James’ Park for the Emirates.

The Gunners are expected to table a £70 million offer, though many feel that will not be enough to convince the Magpies to sanction a sale. Even so, it should at least bring both sides to the negotiating table.

Meanwhile, as Arsenal hope to strike a deal for Guimaraes, Chelsea, as per Simon Phillips, are also keen on the midfielder. Even then, the suggestion is that Arsenal remain favourites in the race.

Speaking of favourites, The Mirror report that Manchester United have now stepped away from the Alex Scott chase. The Red Devils cannot afford to pay £70 million plus for the Englishman, and that U‑turn reshapes the battle for the Premier League standout. It is now an Arsenal‑versus‑Chelsea fight for Scott. Notably, Chelsea have already seen a £60 million bid rejected, with Bournemouth determined to resist a sale.

Elsewhere, keen to find cover for William Saliba, who is set for a spell out with a back issue, the English champions have, according to Caught Offside, been offered the chance to sign Sporting CP’s Zeno Debast.

Although the move is yet to receive Arsenal’s green light, it is one to watch, especially with uncertainty surrounding Saliba’s return after he opted against surgery in favour of rest and rehabilitation.

Furthermore, as per Gary Jacob, Mikel Arteta is desperate for Arsenal to sign Julian Alvarez.

The Argentine is his dream attacking addition, and Arteta wants him so badly that he is willing to include Viktor Gyokeres in a deal to bring the Atlético Madrid striker back to the Premier League.

On a brighter note, Christos Tzolis has already been unveiled as an Arsenal player. All eyes now turn to what he can deliver. There is plenty of expectation on his shoulders, particularly with the need to replace Leandro Trossard’s goals. Yet with 22 goals and 29 assists last season, he looks well equipped to step up.

Arsenal's perfect Morgan Rogers response as Berta plots to derail City's transfer plans

By Danong 

Arsenal have missed out on their top summer target, Morgan Rogers.

Reports suggest Aston Villa stood firm on their demands, and Arsenal were unwilling to meet the hefty asking price slapped on their attacker. Chelsea, however, saw an opportunity to show their appetite to spend and did just that, giving the Villans what they wanted: £117 million for Rogers.

While the attacker could have snubbed the Blues and picked Arsenal instead, forcing Villa to negotiate with the Gunners, he chose not to. In fact, it is suggested that he preferred Stamford Bridge over the Emirates.

Had the transfer gone through, Rogers would have come in as a left winger. Arsenal have, of course, already secured a left winger in Christos Tzolis, but the Greek is seen as more of a backup to the marquee left-winger signing the English champions still intend to make.

With Rogers no longer an option, Fabrizio Romano has now suggested Arsenal may turn to Yan Diomande to satisfy their left-winger need. 

The Italian transfer guru says, "Arsenal, over the last few days, made some checks with the agents of Yan Diomande from RB Leipzig to understand if there was still a chance to enter the deal. Arsenal made some calls to understand the situation."

The Ivorian international is one of the deadliest wingers out there. Explosive and two-footed, he combines electrifying pace with elite one-v-one dribbling skill that sees him easily create goalscoring chances for himself or his teammates.

He too will not come cheap, and inexperienced as he is, it remains to be seen whether the Gunners would offer £100 million plus for his services, the fee Borussia Dortmund want to sanction a sale.

Beyond the winger search, Arsenal must also address William Saliba's fitness, with the Frenchman potentially sidelined for months. He has spent the past few months playing through pain because of a back issue he has been managing.

John Stones and Ezri Konsa have already been touted as transfer solutions, but a new option has now emerged: as per Ben Jacobs, the Gunners are among the clubs interested in Crystal Palace defender Maxence Lacroix.

In pursuing the Frenchman, though, they may be setting themselves up for a transfer battle with Chelsea, who are already in talks with Crystal Palace.

A battle with Chelsea will not be the only one the English champions face, either. According to L'Equipe, Arsenal are set to press hard for Ayyoub Bouaddi, and in doing so will go head-to-head with Manchester City for the World Cup standout.

Stones transfer opportunity too good to ignore as Morgan Rogers bid set to open talks

By Danong 

After letting Leandro Trossard leave, Arsenal have moved quickly to sign Greek winger sensation Christos Tzolis.

For only £33.9 million, Tzolis, who scored 22 goals and provided 29 assists in 52 games for Club Brugge last season, arrives to replace the goals Trossard used to deliver.

But interestingly, alongside Tzolis, Arsenal are also set to expedite a move for Morgan Rogers, certainly the Gunners' first-choice left-winger target.

Arsenal now feel motivated to submit their first bid. Whether it proves a winning bid remains to be seen, but it will clearly bring both sides to the table, where they can reach a compromise.

If Rogers arrives then Arsenal will theoretically have three options for the left wing, Tzolis, Martinelli and Rogers. It looks as though Rogers will also be utilised as a left sided midfielder, a versatility that Arteta values a lot.

Beyond Rogers, Arsenal are still pressing for Julian Alvarez. Atletico Madrid are willing to do business, but the ball sits in the forward's court, and he is said to want a move to Barcelona instead. Unfortunately for him, Atletico Madrid are not ready to sell to a direct rival. So, should the Argentine agree to a move to the Emirates, Arsenal can probably strike a deal.

But we shouldn't count out the possibility of Alvarez staying put!

That said, some frustrating news has emerged. It has been revealed that William Saliba may to undergo surgery to treat his chronic back pain and if so Arsenal expect the France international centre-back to be out of action for four to five months. That should certainly impact the Gunners' transfer plans.

While Christian Mosquera can step up, Arsenal would be wise to add another defensive option to fill the gap Saliba leaves behind.

We have already covered reports of Arsenal pursuing Aston Villa's Ezri Konsa as cover for Saliba; whether they go through with that deal remains to be seen.

But what if, instead of Konsa, they turn to free agent John Stones? Stones ranks among the most decorated English players of all time. 

Elite in possession and now available on a free transfer, he represents a no-brainer move for Andrea Berta. He could suit Mikel Arteta's game plan perfectly and provide ideal defensive cover for Arsenal.

Arsenal offer to Brugge imminent as personal terms with Tzolis revealed

By 1970s Gooner 

Christos Tzolis has agreed personal terms with Arsenal on a contract running until 2031, according to Italian journalist Nicolò Schira. 

The Greek winger is now one step closer to joining the English champions. He has agreed to a five-year deal worth €3 million per year. 

Arsenal are now preparing to submit an official offer to Club Brugge for his transfer. 

The Gunners have reportedly been scouting Tzolis several times since February after he enjoyed an outstanding season in Belgium, recording 19 goals and 24 assists in all competitions. 

The transfer fee is expected to exceed €40 million. 

Tzolis puts another offer on hold to wait for Arsenal and Atletico set their terms

 By Danong 

According to Florian Plettenberg, Besiktas have done everything in their power to secure the green light for Leandro Trossard. A tempting contract proposal is on the table, ready for the Arsenal forward to sign.

A club-to-club €20m agreement is already in place, meaning all that is left is Trossard's final decision. A decision is expected very soon, and although the German journalist confirms Trossard has several options on the table, Besiktas are waiting for his final answer.

The hope is that Trossard greenlights a move to Besiktas, as the Gunners are ready to strike a deal for Greek winger Christos Tzolis as his replacement.

The Club Brugge winger, who scored 22 goals and provided 29 assists in 52 games last term, is tipped for a big move.

Fabrizio Romano now says that Tzolis wants the move and has put another proposal on hold to wait for Arsenal.

That said this blog"s 1970s Gooner is dead against this move as he considers Trossard an excellent and reliable winger who has greatly contributed to Arsenal's triumph last season.

According to The Independent's Miguel Delaney, Arsenal are attempting to complete a deal for Atletico Madrid's Julian Alvarez before pre-season.

PSG have cooled their interest in the forward, while Atletico do not wish to sell to domestic rivals. The Gunners are keen and pushing and have been told it will take more than £100 million to strike a deal.

Interestingly, Delaney suggests that, in addition to Alvarez, Arsenal will also look to sign Morgan Rogers, with Mikel Arteta wanting both players next season. However, both deals currently hinge on the players' involvement at the World Cup.

Berta much closer to Guimaraes and two other signings

By Danong and 1970s Gooner 

Apparently Arsenal have been told that the only way to get the Morgan Rogers deal done this summer is to meet Aston Villa’s full valuation.

The Midlands club demand £130 million even to consider opening talks with the Gunners over their talisman, so it remains to be seen whether the English champions will break their transfer record.

It appears that Villa have set a mammoth valuation on Rogers so that they can get to their dream transfer fee of around 100m.

Manchester City's purchase of Anderson for 116m has unfortunately set the bar at an inflationary level. The sooner City are told of the panel's decision on the 115+ charges the better....

Meanwhile, with Leandro Trossard expected to join Besiktas, Arsenal appear to have already lined up his replacement. The Gunners are now close to completing an agreement with Club Brugge to sign Christos Tzolis for a fee in the region of £35 million.

It looks an exciting capture, given the winger’s impressive tally of 22 goals and 29 assists in just 52 appearances last season. But 35m implies that he will not be a nailed on starter. Rogers may be that...

Elsewhere in a major development on the Bruno Guimaraes front, the Brazilian has asked Newcastle United to let him join Arsenal. Transfer guru Ben Jacobs has revealed that Guimaraes has already verbally agreed terms with the Gunners.

Newcastle still insist their captain is not for sale and deny any direct negotiations so far, but Arsenal are expected to lodge a formal bid shortly. This is definitely one to watch. And what a midfield we will be able to field the coming season.

With the player keen and Arsenal ready to commit, the Magpies may have little choice but to give in, given their captain’s head has been turned.

That said, Arsenal have signed another goalkeeper. The Gunners have brought in Illan Meslier, their ninth keeper arrival since Mikel Arteta took charge. With Kepa Arrizabalaga set to leave, the former Leeds man will arrive as the club’s second-choice goalkeeper.

Besiktas announce agreement with Arsenal for Trossard

By 1970s Gooner 

Arsenal did not include Leandro Trossard in their plans for next season and have agreed to transfer him to Besiktas. 

The Belgian international forward is under contract until the summer of 2027, but Arsenal informed his agent last month that he was available for transfer. 

Although Trossard had offers from clubs in Saudi Arabia, Besiktas reached an agreement with the English champions after making a €25 million (£21.4m) offer for the player. According to the report, Arsenal confirmed the agreement. 

The 31-year-old joined Arsenal from Brighton in January 2023. Last season, he scored 8 goals and provided 11 assists in 50 appearances across all competitions.

Trossard has reportedly agreed to a three-year contract with Besiktas, worth €7 million per year (£6.0m).

Rayan creeps into Arsenal's transfer plans, Trossard deal agreed and truth of £34m Odegaard exit

By Danong 

Rayan is a man on the rise. Having joined AFC Bournemouth in the winter, he played so well that the club barely felt Antoine Semenyo's absence.

In 15 games, he racked up seven goal contributions for the Cherries. Unsurprisingly, his bright form has also earned him a key role in Brazil's World Cup campaign.

Now fully unleashed to the world, the versatile attacker is attracting plenty of interest, and Arsenal have reportedly entered the race to prise him away from the Vitality Stadium.

Interestingly, Rayan is not the only target on Arsenal's radar at Bournemouth; the Gunners are also actively pursuing Alex Scott.

Meanwhile, Ayyoub Bouaddi may have dropped off Arsenal's list of midfield targets. As Caught Offside explains, "Lille's desire to keep the Morocco international for one more season does not suit Arsenal, and, from what the outlet understands, no deal exists to loan him back there or sign him in 2027."

That said, Trossard seems to have played his last game for Arsenal. He turned into some player for the Gunners, racking up 36 goals and 34 assists in 174 appearances.

The Belgian winger is set to join Besiktas after the Turkish side agreed a €20 million deal to sign the 31-year-old.

Given that his contract in North London was set to expire next summer, this represents a great deal for Arsenal. Hopefully, Trossard's departure has now opened the door to a signing of Morgan Rogers or Bradley Barcola.

Like Trossard, Martin Odegaard has also been linked with an Arsenal exit, with some suggesting that everything has been agreed for him to join Galatasaray.

Worrying as that seemed for some Gooners, though, those claims have now been rubbished.

GOAL has labelled the claims "completely false", insisting that the playmaker will not be joining the Turkish giants on a £34.3 million deal.

City hijack Monga deal, Konsa eyed as Saliba cover, plus £60m Guimaraes bid

 By Danong 

Jeremy Monga to Arsenal is off the table. The Gunners thought they had won the race for the young winger's signature, but Leicester's asking price didn't sit well with the English champions. As the two clubs struggled to agree a fee, the door opened for a hijack, and Manchester City have duly obliged.

The Cityzens have convinced Monga to join them, agreeing to meet the Foxes' asking price. According to The Athletic, Arsenal could have tried to compete by matching the offer, but they chose not to.

That said, Arsenal now have a clear idea of who they will target if they do make a defensive signing. William Saliba may need back surgery, and if he does, Mikel Arteta, according to the Telegraph, is pushing the club to sign Ezri Konsa.

The Gunners are warming to the idea of landing the Aston Villa star, though the move could end up affecting their pursuit of Morgan Rogers.

Meanwhile, two major sales at Newcastle- Anthony Gordon to Barcelona and Sandro Tonali to Tottenham Hotspur- may spell doom for Arsenal's chase of Bruno Guimaraes.

With Newcastle's finances in the healthiest state they've ever been, the Magpies may no longer need to sell.

Still, according to Simon Jordan, there is a belief that a deal for Guimaraes can be struck. Behind the scenes, talks continue, with the Premier League champions convinced they can get a deal done for around £60 million.

On top of that, Kepa Arrizabalaga has asked to leave Arsenal, and his wish may soon be granted.

The leading name under consideration to replace him is free agent Illan Meslier. Should the former Leeds man accept a role as understudy, Arsenal could capture him to deputise for David Raya.

Guimaraes conditions set, Lille open Bouaddi door, Saliba concern grows as Arsenal look at other centre backs

By Danong 

Last week, links to Bruno Guimaraes came back in full swing, with claims that behind-the-scenes talks had taken place to gauge the possibility of a deal being struck for him to join Arsenal.

On Sunday, Chronicle Live's Lee Ryder spoke of what would be needed to get this deal done. He admits, "Newcastle have made it clear they only want to sell on their terms." And those terms are steep. Talks suggest it would take £80 million or more to convince the Magpies to sell.

Meanwhile, Fabrice Hawkins the French Journalist claims Lille have now made their own terms clear regarding a potential sale of Arsenal target Ayyoub Bouaddi. He says:

"Lille would prefer a sale with a one-year loan included, with club president Olivier Letang demanding between €80m-€100m."

Elsewhere, Ben White could be allowed to leave this summer. Club insider The Hand Of Arsenal says inquiries have come in over his availability, though none have yet progressed beyond that stage as he continues working his way back to full fitness. 

Should an offer that excites White, however, come through, the club will let him go. Whether that opens the door for a Tino Livramento swoop, we will have to wait and see.

Interestingly, alongside that White update, Hand of Arsenal also flagged that William Saliba, not 100 per cent, is being closely monitored. 

When asked wether the club feel he needs specialised treatment or even surgery for his back issue (!) he said "Arsenal have also made checks on numerous centre-backs, including Maxence Lacroix, Ezri Konsa and others."

If this comes about then there's something serious with Saliba.

Newcastle's Stance on Guimaraes, Fight for Scott and £17m Offer for Trossard opens the door for Morgan Rogers

By Danong 

According to the Daily Mail's Craig Hope, Arsenal have Newcastle braced for their approach for Bruno Guimaraes, with the UK representatives of the Brazilian already holding talks with the Gunners over a transfer.

David Ornstein has since reported that Arsenal made a verbal offer through intermediaries to sign Guimaraes from Newcastle, with a proposal below £60m turned down. Newcastle, meanwhile, insist the Brazil international is not for sale.

Beyond Guimaraes, Arsenal are also reportedly keeping tabs on Alex Scott, with the English champions expected to rival Manchester United in a £60 million-plus battle for the Englishman, per the Daily Mail.

Elsewhere, Arsenal have offered £5m for Leicester prodigy Jeremy Monga (16), plus a 10 per cent sell-on clause, but the Foxes have rejected the bid. 

While Leicester have reduced their initial £15 million valuation, they are still holding out for £10 million plus a 15 per cent sell-on clause. With Monga only wanting Arsenal, the Gunners are likely to return with an improved offer until a deal is struck.

On a more positive note, Arsenal have confirmed they have activated their option to buy to sign Piero Hincapié permanently from Bayer Leverkusen, with the £34.5 million deal expected to go through on 1 July.

While Hincapie arrives on a permanent deal, Gabriel Jesus could be heading in the opposite direction. Talk Juve reports that Juventus want the Brazilian, though the club will only sanction his exit if he agrees to a pay cut.

As for Leandro Trossard, Al-Diraiyah are keen to sign him from the Saudi Pro League, with the Middle Eastern club prepared to offer around £17 million to secure the Belgian's signature, per Nieuwsblad. 

Should Trossard depart, his exit could open the door for a left-winger signing, with a big-money move for Morgan Rogers potentially on the cards.

Morgan Rogers talks set to begin, Igor Thiago Arsenal interest and Martin Odegaard decision to be made

Between the World Cup and the summer transfer window, most Gooners are struggling to keep up, so here are the Arsenal transfer murmurs doing the rounds over the weekend.

By Danong 

Arsenal have won the race for Georgian playmaker Andria Bartishvili. The 17-year-old is set to join on a £4.5 million deal, though the switch will not be completed until 30th March next year, when he turns 18. An attacking midfielder capable of featuring as a winger too, he will be Arsenal's other attacking signing of the summer.

While the Bartishvili deal has been agreed, Arsenal insider The Hand of Arsenal has dropped another Morgan Rogers update, claiming talks between Arsenal and Aston Villa are set to kick off. Last week, we covered a report that the playmaker prefers Arsenal among his many suitors, and, according to the insider, personal terms are never going to be an issue in this deal.

Reports have also emerged from Brazil claiming Arsenal want to sign one of the league's most in-form strikers. Apparently, Mikel Arteta has asked for Igor Thiago to strengthen his striking department. The Spaniard is potentially anticipating Gabriel Jesus' exit, and who better to target than the second-best Premier League striker? With 22 goals, Thiago was the second-highest scorer in the league last season. If he can bring those numbers to the Emirates, it will be scary times for Arsenal's rivals.

Beyond Rogers and Thiago, Arsenal have entered the race for Crysencio Summerville. The West Ham winger is expected to leave the London Stadium this summer, with offers in the £50 million region suggested as enough to seal a move. A dangerous left winger currently taking the World Cup by storm, Summerville could be a worthy alternative to Rogers.

That said, BBC journalist Sami Mokbel said "There have been some whispers over the summer that Arsenal might be interested in letting Martin Odegaard go for the right price." It will be interesting to see whether that one has legs.

The perfect left-winger to transform Arsenal as Trossard and Martinelli decision made

The left wing is one position Arsenal must finally fix if the ambition is to dominate the Premier League and hold the title hostage.

For the last few summers, the Gunners have entered the transfer window hell-bent on upgrading that wing, but have repeatedly fallen short.

In 2024, they were heavily linked with Nico Williams, but could never strike a deal. Last summer, it was Real Madrid's Brazilian winger Rodrygo whom they persistently pursued, but also failed to strike a deal.

Rather than landing a natural winger, the English champions ended up signing Eberechi Eze to fill the role. Yet for all his technical brilliance, Eze never truly elevated the position; his best performances as a Gunner came as a number ten.

Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli did their bit, but both struggled. Watching them, one cannot help but feel Arsenal would be better served upgrading on the pair.

So who can Arsenal turn to?

Morgan Rogers

The Aston Villa talisman has been heavily linked with a move to the Emirates, with Hand of Arsenal recently claiming he has made clear to Arsenal and his other suitors that he prefers Mikel Arteta's project.

He should be Arsenal's marquee summer signing. Rogers' power, ability to carry the ball and drive into danger areas, whether through dribbles, passes or shots, makes him a genuinely difficult force to contain.

He scored against every Premier League big six side apart from Arsenal. His top-flight experience, goal threat and ability to fashion chances from nothing should make him an instant hit at the Emirates. With the title defence on the line, the Gunners need someone who will hit the ground running from day one.

Crysencio Summerville

Should Rogers not materialise, Arsenal ought to take advantage of Crysencio Summerville being available for £50 million.

Even in a struggling West Ham side, the Dutch international showed he is a technically gifted, direct winger, comfortable on either flank. Those attributes, transferred into a better squad, could produce world-class output capable of taking Arsenal's game to the next level. He managed only five league goals in 31 games last season, but unlock his finishing, and you unleash a different animal entirely.

The chaos he is causing for the Netherlands at the World Cup, with two goals in two games, strongly hints at the threat he could pose to Arsenal's opponents.

Moreover, the fact that PSG, whose winger signings, Desire Doué and Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, rarely disappoint, are reportedly asking about him is the ultimate seal of approval. Summerville has every hallmark of the next deadly wide man.

Bradley Barcola

The PSG winger is another outstanding left-wing option on Arsenal's radar and arguably the finest true winger available among those linked with the club. His end product can be erratic, but the goals are there, 11 in 29 Ligue 1 appearances, and he brings incredible transition threat alongside a blistering burst of pace in 1v1 situations.

Should Arteta get to work on his finishing, Barcola could become a devastating attacking asset. The issue, unlike Rogers or Summerville, is that he may need time to adapt.

If Arsenal can land any of the three, the left-wing issue is resolved. However, that would likely trigger further movement; one of their current wide options would probably need to make way.

Trossard is the most logical departure. He is entering the final phase of his career, and with Besiktas reportedly keen, moving him on makes sense.

Martinelli, still with years ahead of him, can stay and provide cover for whoever Arsenal bring in.

Further down the line, when youngsters like Jeremy Monga, tipped to sign from Leicester, are ready to step into a key role, Martinelli's future can be reassessed. Whether that means a positional reinvention at striker or left-back, or ultimately a sale, the Brazilian has options. For now, though, he remains a useful asset.

Arsenal's Monga bid, Morgan Rogers decision and Bartishvili contract offer

By Danong 

The summer transfer window is in full flow, and as a Gooner, here is what the grapevine has served up.  

Arsenal have finally submitted their first bid for Leicester’s teenage sensation, Jeremy Monga. The hope was to swiftly close the deal, given the attacker’s eagerness to sign for the Gunners, but they remain his first choice despite interest from several big clubs. Yet Leicester have rejected the opening offer, seemingly trying to delay the inevitable. Arsenal are expected to return with another bid.  

It isn’t just Monga who is sold on joining Arsenal. Morgan Rogers, too, has set his sights on North London. According to an insider, The Hand of Arsenal, Rogers has chosen Arsenal as his preferred destination. Even Chelsea and Manchester United, his other serious suitors, are aware of his leaning towards Mikel Arteta’s project. What remains now is for Arsenal and Aston Villa to agree terms.  

A deal for Rogers looks increasingly likely, though the Gunners also hold a £40 million option to sign Marcus Rashford.

Barcelona failed to activate their £26 million option to make his loan permanent, leaving the United winger’s £40 million release clause open for Arsenal to trigger. Intriguingly, Liverpool and Manchester City cannot activate it. Rashford’s name has surfaced in Arsenal conversations, and it will be fascinating to see if interest turns into a concrete approach.  

Meanwhile, Arsenal will make a pre‑contract offer for Georgia Under‑21 international Andria Bartishvili. As BBC’s Sami Mokbel, the Gunners want to bring the playmaker to the Emirates, even though the race is far trickier, with other clubs also in pursuit of the 17‑year‑old.  

And beyond transfers, today brings the release of Premier League fixtures. Word on the street is that the Gunners will open their title defence against Coventry.

Arsenal push ahead with Tzolis and Bouaddi deals, Gibbs-White links refuse to fade, as Real Madrid's plan A rejected by Arsenal player

By Danong and 1970s Gooner 

Watching Gabriel Magalhaes carry Brazil's defence against Morocco, brace hero Kai Havertz light up Germany's attack, and Viktor Gyokeres score for fun at the World Cup must have seen you miss some transfer rumours doing the rounds at Arsenal.

Well, here they are.

Links to Ayyoub Bouaddi have come in thick and fast, fuelled, no doubt, by the masterclass he dropped against Brazil in Morocco's World Cup opener. The Times are reporting that Arsenal have initiated talks with the midfielder's entourage, looking to sign the 18-year-old, while Sacha Tavolieri adds that the Gunners are "convinced of their ability to rival PSG for the Morocco international's signature."

Lille want around €70 million (£60m) for the midfield prodigy.

Beyond the Moroccan midfielder, Arsenal are also eyeing deadly Greek winger Christos Tzolis. The Club Brugge man was such a hit last season: 22 goals and 29 assists in 52 games, and is now seen as a potential replacement for Leandro Trossard, who is tipped to join Besiktas.

David Ornstein is reporting that Arsenal are pushing to strike a deal, hoping to land the Greek international for £34.5 million.

In addition to Bouaddi and Tzolis, links to Morgan Gibbs-White have not gone away. He is seen as someone who could offer the X-factor in attack: the creativity and goal threat between the lines that Arteta has long craved. 

Much will depend on Forest's stance of not wanting their two best players (the other is Elliot Anderson) leaving in the same season. Arteta will also have his work cut out to convince the Kroenkes that he needs an additional number 10 when Odegaard is there but also Eze who was bought for big money.

Meanwhile, Fabrizio Romano has dropped an interesting update that will have Arsenal talking. Before striking a deal with Chelsea for Marc Cucurella, Real Madrid had approached Ricardo Calafiori in a bid to lure him to the Bernabeu. He turned them down flat; the Italian firmly sees his future at the North London club. Arteta's project is certainly where everyone wants to be.

Bid for Galatasaray winger, Nico Williams hope, Hincapie wanted in Madrid, Nwaneri going to London rival?

By Danong 

The World Cup finally kicked off, with Arsenal well represented on the grand stage. While all eyes are on which Gunners can drive their nations to glory, some supporters may lose sight of the transfer stories bubbling away in the background.

We have got you covered. Here is what the rumour mill has churned out over the past few days:

Corriere della Sera report that Arsenal are tracking AS Roma midfielder Manu Kone. Initial contacts have been made with the player’s entourage, though no formal bid has yet gone in. That could change soon, with an offer expected to follow.  

Elsewhere, Teamtalk claim the Gunners have rekindled their interest in the pursuit of Athletic Bilbao winger Nico Williams. For years, Williams has been packaged as the dream addition on the left flank. Arsenal were so keen to sign him last summer, but then the Spaniard opted to commit to a long‑term deal at San Mames. But after a tricky 2025–26 campaign, Williams is now said to be weighing his options, with reports suggesting he would be "open to testing himself in the Premier League if the right opportunity arises."

Should Williams prove elusive again, Fanatik in Turkey suggests Galatasaray’s Baris Alper Yilmaz is another winger on Arsenal’s radar, with a €50 million (£43m) bid expected to be tabled.  

Meanwhile, Ethan Nwaneri’s future appears to be drifting away from Arsenal. Chelsea insider Alex Goldberg has revealed: “Chelsea are definitely interested in Arsenal attacking mid Ethan Nwaneri. They had interest last summer and have now renewed it.”  

It is not only Nwaneri attracting attention. Arsenal’s push to make Piero Hincapie’s move permanent may face competition, with Siro Lopez reporting that Real Madrid have been blown away by the South American defender and are closely monitoring his situation.

Real Madrid have met with Calafiori’s agent

 By 1970s Gooner

Real Madrid are looking to strengthen their defensive line, and one of the players on their radar is Riccardo Calafiori.

According to transfer expert Nicolò Schira, both the people at Real Madrid and José Mourinho highly rate the Italian defender's abilities. As a result, the Spanish club are ready to begin talks with Arsenal regarding his transfer.

In fact, representatives of Real Madrid have already met with Calafiori's agent, and the negotiations are expected to progress in the near future.

Real Madrid are talking to Calafiori's agent and will make their move soon

 By 1970s Gooner

Real Madrid are looking to strengthen their defensive line, and one of the players on their radar is Riccardo Calafiori.

According to transfer expert Nicolò Schira, both the people at Real Madrid and José Mourinho highly rate the Italian defender's abilities. As a result, the Spanish club are ready to begin talks with Arsenal regarding his transfer.

In fact, representatives of Real Madrid have already met with Calafiori's agent, and the negotiations are expected to progress in the near future.

Transfer centre: Plan for Mbemba, Alvarez decision, Gibbs-White if not Rogers

By Danong 

While all attention turns to how some Arsenal players will fare at the World Cup, that is not all that is keeping Gooners busy this summer.

With it being transfer season, talk of who Arsenal might sign is equally exciting.

Here are the moves Arsenal are reportedly working on from the weekend.

Arsenal are eyeing PSG under-19 captain Emmanuel Mbemba. The club have established contact with the defender, with a deal set to be pursued this summer. Apparently, with Nuno Mendes blocking his pathway at the club, Mbemba wants out of Paris.

An Arsenal insider claims the plan is to sign Mbemba and loan him out, much like what happened with William Saliba. The Gunners rarely get it wrong with defensive signings, and the PSG prodigy has impressed Arsenal's data team so much so that they see him as a must-have.

The 18-year-old could be signed for just over £150k in training compensation money when his contract expires at the end of this month.

Beyond Mbemba, Arsenal are also eyeing Nottingham Forest's Morgan Gibbs-White. Apparently, the Forest attacker, who managed 18 goals and six assists in all competitions last season, is Arsenal's plan B should they fail to sign Morgan Rogers.

As of the weekend, there had been little development on Arsenal's Rogers bid.

Meanwhile, while Andrea Berta would have hoped to add Julian Alvarez to those potential signings, that may not be the case, according to Cadena SER. Should Alvarez leave Atletico Madrid, he only wants to join Barcelona.

If not Alvarez, the English champions could turn to Bournemouth's Eli Junior Kroupi. The latest on that pursuit is that Arsenal would have to pay £86 million to land him. The Cherries are in a strong position to hold firm on that valuation, with several top clubs circling the Frenchman. It will be interesting to see whether Arsenal have that kind of money to spend.

Transfer centre: £80m Fernandes tag, Monga agreement reached, direct Rogers contact

By Danong 

After three attempts under Mikel Arteta, Arsenal have finally laid their hands on the Premier League title.

The boys in red and white are English champions at last. Lifting the league should have quenched the Gunners' thirst, yet a taste for glory only makes you yearn for more.

Arsenal will now look to establish themselves as a force and hold the 'champions' status hostage for years to come. To do that, Mikel Arteta and the Arsenal decision-makers must ensure they have the very best at the club.

On those lines, here are the players Arsenal have been linked with over the past few days:

Jeremy Monga

The Leicester wonderkid is tipped to leave the club this summer. The teen sensation, known for his blistering pace, elite dribbling ability, and versatility across the front line, had top Premier League clubs calling. However, it is Arsenal who have won the race. Personal terms have been agreed, as per an Arsenal insider, and all that remains is a club-to-club agreement for the 16-year-old.

Mateus Fernandes

Arsenal are among the top clubs linked with the Portuguese midfielder who made such a big impression at West Ham United last season. The race remains wide open, with The Athletic suggesting that whoever is willing to splash £80 million stands in the best position to land him. Fernandes' rare blend of elite technical control, positional versatility, and gritty defensive work rate is precisely what Arsenal want to inject into their engine room.

Sandro Tonali

On Thursday, Fabrizio Romano spoke about Arsenal's interest in Sandro Tonali persists, though Manchester City could yet emerge as competition. Should City fail in their pursuit of Elliot Anderson, they are expected to turn their attention to Tonali.

Rafael Leao and Morgan Rogers 

There have also been reports that Arsenal have been offered the chance to sign Rafael Leao. The Portuguese winger is set to leave AC Milan in search of a fresh start, and Arsenal could provide exactly that if the Gunners take up the option.

That said, the most exciting transfer news of the week comes again from Romano, who claims Arsenal have made direct contact in their bid to sign Morgan Rogers. Arsenal are keen on securing a deadly winger, and Rogers, who has proven himself time and again at Villa Park, is as dangerous as they come. 

Though no concrete club-to-club talks have taken place, the Englishman is widely expected to change clubs this summer, and Arsenal's proactive approach could prove handy in winning the race.

 

Odegaard: Stay or go? The surprise call Arteta may make on Arsenal’s captain

By Danong 

Has this Arsenal team evolved beyond Martin Odegaard? Is the Norwegian skipper about to suffer the same fate as Aaron Ramsdale and Oleksandr Zinchenko, good players, but ultimately not good enough for where Arsenal were at?

Odegaard is expected to be one of Arsenal’s most productive figures. Yet three league goals and eight assists in the 2024–26 season, followed by just one league goal and six assists last term, is not enough.

Yes, one could argue his underlying numbers were strong in what was his worst, injury‑ridden campaign. However, injuries aside, across 24 league matches and eight Champions League outings last season, the Arsenal captain should have delivered more, more than his one goal and seven assists.

Odegaard has poured in effort, blood, and fight to help Arsenal reach this level. But now, the club must take the next step. Sadly, Arteta’s project may have outgrown him.

Strangely, it is nothing against him. He remains a fantastic player who could easily be the best midfielder on many other sides. Yet at Arsenal, he currently lacks the urgency and individual brilliance expected of a number 10.

For a player once bracketed alongside Kevin De Bruyne and Bruno Fernandes, he has failed to fulfil that potential. Still, while the clamour grows for Arsenal to move him on with Morgan Rogers touted as an upgrade, Odegaard may yet stay. He could be handed a chance to revive himself after two injury‑blighted campaigns.

Amid his struggles, it is worth noting that few organise the press as effectively as Odegaard. For Mikel Arteta, that tactical intelligence may be a decisive factor in keeping him. Selling that level of pressing nous without a superior replacement would be unwise, especially when a successor could learn directly from him.

Thus, the 2026–27 season could be Ødegaard’s last chance saloon. It may be the campaign in which he seals his Arsenal fate, and helps the Gunners decide whether he remains part of their future.

These smart transfer moves and Arteta’s fearless call are going to deliver the perfect title defence and beyond

By Danong 

Mikel Arteta's Arsenal have finally laid their hands on the Premier League title.

This Arsenal side have ended a frustrating 22-year league title drought but winning the league is one thing. Defending it is another, and that is now precisely what the boys in red and white must do.

They must prove they are genuinely that good, and that winning the league was no stroke of luck.

That said, as good a team as Arsenal are, one thing is clear: to perform at their absolute best and pull off a successful title defence, they will need to inject even more quality into this squad.

With that in mind, here are some moves Arsenal should be thinking about.

Better the attack

It is high time Arsenal solved their left-wing problem once and for all, high time Arteta moved on from Leandro Trossard and Gabriel Martinelli in favour of a deadlier, Bukayo Saka-like wide option.

The Arsenal attack did well this season, but it would hit another gear entirely if the left wing were as lethal as the right is when Saka is at the peak of his powers.

Fortunately, there is talk of Arsenal pursuing Morgan Rogers. The Aston Villa star should comfortably represent an upgrade on the current left-wing options. 

A ball-to-feet, carry-and-dribble left winger and attacking midfielder hybrid, equally comfortable cutting inside or starting from wide areas and driving into the half-spaces to either shoot or create, Rogers would take Arsenal's left-hand side to a completely different level.

Beyond Rogers, Arsenal should also move for AFC Bournemouth's Eli Junior Kroupi.

Victor Gyokeres has been decent. For a striker many felt would struggle to adapt at Arsenal, 14 league goals is a fine return. The expectation is that he will kick on next season, yet Arsenal cannot rely on him alone as their sole striking option. 

They need another forward, and why not go young? Kroupi would not mind sharing the workload with the Swede, and the arrangement could suit both.

Thirteen goals in 21 league starts, the 19-year-old is one of the most dangerous forwards in the Premier League. He still has plenty to learn, but while he could push Gyokeres to his limits, he too would benefit enormously from playing alongside the Arsenal number 14.

Together, Kroupi and Rogers would take this Arsenal attack to crazy levels . Opposition defences would find them a handful.

Shore up the midfield

After sorting the attack, Arteta will need to bring in a proper defensive midfielder.

Martin Zubimendi started well but lost momentum as the season wore on, at times looking a shadow of himself. His struggles could have cost Arsenal the title, but Arteta acted decisively, dropping him and turning instead to a Myles Lewis-Skelly and Declan Rice midfield pairing.

Whilst that partnership could certainly work next season, Arsenal would be wise not to gamble on it. They would do better to sign another top-quality central midfielder.

There is talk that they are back in for Sandro Tonali, and he looks exactly like what they need. On the pitch, the Italian is disciplined, positionally sharp, and consistently available. He keeps things ticking, helps the team maintain structure, and makes intelligent decisions under pressure. 

Defensively, he adds an extra layer of security, reads the game well, tracks runners, and never leaves the back line exposed. He would offer Arsenal precisely what they wanted from Zubimendi but never quite got.

Cover at right back

With the attack and midfield addressed, signing a capable Jurrien Timber alternative would also be a shrewd piece of business.

Overplaying Timber ran him into the ground, and now, at the very moment he was most needed, he has not been fit. 

Had Arsenal been able to call on a trustworthy alternative, Arteta would not have had to lean on the Dutchman so heavily in the first place.

On that front, long-term target Ivan Fresneda, who has been a massive hit in Portugal with Sporting CP, could be the answer.

The Gunners have tracked the right back since his La Liga days, and having excelled for Sporting, now could finally be the moment to bring him to the Emirates.

And finally, embrace rotation

Ultimately, those signings would give Arsenal a stronger, more balanced squad, but they will only translate into a title defence if Arteta embraces proper squad rotation.

You cannot play Zubimendi into every match when you have a Premier League-proven option like Christian Norgaard available. Similarly, you cannot run Timber into the ground by overplaying him when alternatives exist.

Reinforcements and smart rotation will ultimately be Arsenal's greatest weapons in retaining the Premier League title and ushering in an era of domination and titles. 

Arteta's bold reshuffle that could ensure a win as Arsenal lift the PL title at Selhurst Park

By Danong 

Twenty-two years later, Arsenal are back as Premier League champions, with the crowning set to take place at Selhurst Park on Sunday.

With the result against Crystal Palace on Saturday doing nothing to affect Arsenal's title hopes, this is certainly a dead rubber fixture for the Gunners.

The boys in red and white have nothing to play for but pride. And while Mikel Arteta may wish to field his formidable line-up, it is unlikely he will do so with a big Champions League final just a week away.

The Spaniard will want to keep his key players injury-free, and he should, to field his strongest line-up against PSG in Paris.

So in the final game of the season, we could see a massive shuffle of the Arsenal line-up.

We could see:

Arrizabalaga

Mosquera, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Norgaard, Zubimendi, Eze

Madueke, Gyokeres, Dowman

Key players such as Bukayo Saka, Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz may only be afforded time from the bench.

Unfortunately, Jurrien Timber and Ben White are expected to miss out once again due to injury.

That said, in eight meetings against Palace, Arsenal are unbeaten, and form is firmly with them. The Eagles, meanwhile, have conceded at least two goals in each of their last five games.

Notably, Arsenal have won each of the last 14 final-day fixtures, last losing on the final day in the 2004-05 season. Who would bet against them making it 15?

Courageous line up predicted for West Ham title decider

By Danong 

Sunday and Arsenal make the short trip east to take on city rivals West Ham at the London Stadium.

Their last two visits there have seen the boys in red and white pick up convincing wins.

Now the Gunners need to replicate those results as they edge ever closer to a league title.

West Ham have struggled this season and are in real danger of relegation. That tricky situation, desperate to avoid the drop, should see them throw everything at this one.

Yet Arsenal, as thirsty as they are for league glory, should have more than enough motivation to overpower them.

Mikel Arteta has confirmed that both Jurrien Timber and Mikel Merino will miss Sunday's clash.

There are no fresh injuries, however, so the Arsenal manager should still have a strong squad to call upon for this derby.

With the Champions League still around three weeks away, the Gunners can go full throttle in their bid to win the league, and that is precisely why Arsenal could field this fierce line-up:

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori

Lewis-Skelly, Rice, Odegaard

Saka, Gyokeres, Eze

That is certainly the most front-footed line-up Arteta can go with.

Myles Lewis-Skelly has breathed new life into Arsenal's engine room, bringing calmness, control, and progression, qualities that Martin Zubimendi has struggled to provide of late.

Beyond the Lewis-Skelly factor, having both Eze and Odegaard on the pitch at the same time should see the Gunners creating chances in abundance, chances that ought to hurt West Ham.

Win this one, and it will be one down, two to go before Arsenal finally claim the champions' tag.

Significant changes predicted in midfield and in attack that will.propel Arsenal in the final of the CL

By Danong 

Arsenal are back in action on Tuesday, hosting Atlético Madrid at the Emirates Stadium in the second leg of their Champions League semi-final.

The first leg ended all square, with the two sides playing out a 1-1 draw at the Wanda Metropolitano. Tuesday night, however, a winner must emerge, and Arsenal will be hoping that on familiar ground, they are the ones who come out on top.

Earlier in the season, when the Gunners hosted Atletico in the Champions League league phase, they thrashed them 4-0. A similar result on Tuesday night will book the north Londoners a place in the 2026 Champions League final, set for the Puskás Arena in Budapest, Hungary on Saturday, 30 May.

On Saturday, Mikel Arteta reintroduced Ricardo Calafiori and Bukayo Saka in his starting 11 in that convincing 3-0 win over Fulham, with Myles Lewis-Skelly replacing Martin Zubimendi in midfield also proving another astute tactical call.

Against the La Liga outfit, Gooners will be hoping Arteta produces similarly sharp thinking to outwit Diego Simeone.

Notably, the Arsenal boss is boosted by the availability of both Kai Havertz and Martin Odegaard, a significant lift ahead of such a high-stakes occasion.

With the returning duo back in the squad alongside the formidable side Arteta fielded on Saturday, Atletico have every reason to be worried.

Arteta could opt to play:

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Rice, Odegaard, Eze

Saka, Havertz, Trossard

With this line-up, Arteta would be making some bold and necessary calls, the most significant being up front, Havertz for Gyökeres and choosing an attack oriented midfield by dropping Zubimendi for Odegaard. 

While Victor Gyokeres reminded everyone at the weekend just what a deadly finisher he is, Havertz represents the better option against Atletico. The German international's movement and work rate suit the demands of a tight two-legged tie far better.

His technical brilliance, alongside Eberechi Eze and Odegaard, could prove the key to unlocking Atletico's typically resolute defence, creating the openings for Bukayo Saka and Leandro Trossard to capitalise on.

That line-up should comfortably be too strong for Atletico, and could see Arsenal take a decisive step closer to European glory.

I hope Spurs win tonight!

 By 1970s Gooner 

The reason is pretty simple. City play Villa at the Etihad on the last day of the season, 24th May. You would ideally want Villa to be up for this game and try and get a result there.

But if they manage to hang on to the 5th place they hold right now or win the final of the Europa league (if they beat Nottingham Forest and qualify) then they will have very little incentive to be competitive for this game.

The final of the Europa League is four days prior to the last game of the season.

So I hope they loose tonight to Spurs, lose more games slipping away from European qualification and also fail to qualify for the Europa league final.

Time to add more creativity in the team. Predicted 11 Vs Fulham

By Danong and 1970s Gooner 

Arsenal are back at the Emirates on Saturday night, hosting Fulham as they look to keep their title charge alive.

Hoping to quench their thirst for league glory, it surely needs no emphasis that the Gunners simply cannot afford to slip. Only a win will do, with Manchester City breathing down their neck.

Bukayo Saka is back and trying to find his rhythm, whilst Ricardo Calafiori also returns. However, Arsenal will be without Mikel Merino, Jurrien Timber and Kai Havertz.

Even so, Mikel Arteta should have a capable enough side to dispatch the Cottagers. He could go for:

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Rice, Zubimendi, Odegaard

Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard.

Alternatively if Odegaard cannot shake off the niggling knee problem that has followed him since the away game at Brentford there is the more attractive option of starting Eze. This will provide a more attacking threat as well as a player who can come up with a magic moment to win a what could be a close game.

There is the more attractive option to start both Odegaard, if he is fit, and Eze in midfield. Under this scenario Zubimendi will be rested for the second leg of the Semi-final against Athletico Madrid.

Against Atlético Madrid, Arteta made one brilliant tactical tweak, deploying Declan Rice as a six.

That adjustment made Arsenal more defensively strong and balanced, something the Gunners have been crying out for. Against Fulham, it could lay the foundation for yet another important win.

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Rice, Odegaard, Eze

Saka, Gyokeres, Trossard

Earlier in the season, when these two sides met, Arsenal came out on top with a 1-0 victory. Last season, too, the boys in red and white did not lose this London derby, winning at home and drawing at Craven Cottage.

Surely, when they absolutely need to beat Fulham, you would back Arsenal to do so.

Then the hope will be that Everton have enough in them to halt Manchester City on Monday at the Hill Dickinson Stadium.

Arteta's perfect tweak to get Arsenal firing on all cylinders against Atlético

By Danong 

The Champions League semi-finals are here, with Arsenal heading off to Madrid to face Atletico at the Wanda Metropolitano.

With Premier League and Champions League glory both at stake, the boys in red and white will need to bring their A-game across these remaining fixtures.

Mikel Arteta and his squad will be hoping to build on the weekend's win over Newcastle, which saw them reclaim top spot in the league.

Bukayo Saka returned in that 1-0 victory over the Magpies and produced an eye-catching cameo, while Kai Havertz, who was withdrawn with a muscular issue, is not likely to be available. Eberechi Eze, who also picked up a muscular issue against Newcastle and could not finish the game, is similarly set to be fit.

Similarly, Martin Zubimendi felt unwell at half-time against the Magpies but should be fine to return, though Mikel Merino and Jurrien Timber are likely to remain unavailable. On the brighter side, Ricardo Calafiori could be back, a welcome boost.

All things considered, Arteta should have a pretty decent squad to call upon on Wednesday night, and could opt to go with:

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard

Saka, Gyokeres, Eze

This line-up should certainly have enough to take care of an Atlético side whom they put four past back in October's Champions League league phase clash.

That said, Saka and Eze should drown Viktor Gyokeres with chances, and hopefully, he brings his scoring boots. Arsenal needs goals badly. This is a game where they must really step up and put an end to the worrying run of just one goal in their last seven competitive outings.

That said, having kept an impressive eight clean sheets in this season's Champions League campaign, securing a ninth on Wednesday night would go a long way in helping the boys in red and white put one foot in the final.

Arsenal have it in them to finally get over the line and bring glory back to North London. Predicted 11 vs Newcastle

By Danong 

Arsenal are back at the Emirates Stadium on Saturday evening as they host Newcastle in a Premier League Match Day 34 fixture.

Last time out, at the Etihad Stadium, the North Londoners hoped to cushion their lead at the top with a win over Manchester City. Unfortunately, though, they could not deliver. It was a tight contest, but City managed to nick a 2-1 win and as disappointing as that was, things got worse for the boys in red and white midweek when the Cityzens beat Burnley 1-0 to go top of the table.

Against Newcastle, Mikel Arteta will be hoping his side rises to the occasion. He will be hoping they can bring their A-game and shake off their poor league run, having lost their last two league games. Their performance against City last Sunday was certainly encouraging. 

His team will know that a win on Saturday returns them to the top of the league and puts pressure on Guardiola's side.

Looking at their opponents, Newcastle have simply not been at their competitive best this season. The Magpies are winless in their last three league games, and the pressure on Eddie Howe continues to mount.

Newcastle are in a tricky situation. And Arsenal have no choice but to pile on their misery, going for four wins in the last four meetings.

Eberechi Eze, Martin Odegaard and Kai Havertz are all back fit, and Arteta has been able to rely on them.

Bukayo Saka and Ricardo Calafiori will also make the matchday squad for the Newcastle game and may get some minutes but Jurrien Timber will likely miss out.

Even without Timber and Mikel Merino, Arteta can still field a pretty decent side.

He could opt to go with:

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie

Zubimendi, Rice, Odegaard

Madueke, Havertz, Eze

This line-up, set against a Newcastle side who will be without Anthony Gordon and Joelinton, should be more than capable of taking care of business.

A healthy win would be important for Arsenal's title hopes and should set them up perfectly for a strong finish to the season.

Notably, Arsenal's remaining fixtures come against sides in the bottom half, while City face teams in the top half in their run-in.

At their best, Arsenal have it in them to finally get over the line and bring glory back to North London.

The tactical tweak Arteta must make to unlock Arsenal's ruthlessness

By Danong 

Last summer, Arsenal secured one of the deadliest strikers in Europe, signing the red-hot Viktor Gyokeres.

The Swede arrived fresh from a brilliant 2024-25 campaign. He scored 54 goals in 52 games. These impressive numbers had Arsenal convinced they had finally solved their goalscoring struggles.

Yet despite his 18 goals in 46 games, some Gooners feel the attack is not performing at the level it should. The frontline is still misfiring, and things have not improved as expected.

So, what do Arsenal need to unlock an efficient attack? The obvious recommendation is for them to sign a dangerous left-winger, and maybe bring in another striker. 

But none of that may work if Mikel Arteta fails to address one fundamental issue: his midfield.

Arteta wants a midfield built around a number six and two eights. But in constructing that unit, he has erred on the defensive side.

When fully fit, Arteta's preferred midfield trio is Declan Rice, Martin Odegaard, and Martin Zubimendi.

Zubimendi is a natural six, but so is Rice. The Englishman himself once admitted as much to TNT Sports, via the Metro:

"I think my best position is probably as a number 6. My biggest strength is breaking up the play and taking the ball from deep. I do get excited when I play number 8, though. I get to show the other side of my game. I didn't stop running tonight!"

With both Rice and Zubimendi most comfortable as sixes, the tactical solution is clear: Arteta must be bold enough to settle on just one of them in that role.

Playing Rice alongside Zubimendi, without the attacking full-backs that teams like PSG and Bayern Munich have, certainly suffocates Arsenal's creative play. 

But should Arteta commit to one holding midfielder, the Gunners would have fewer creativity issues. This is particularly true if two natural tens were deployed as the eights.

Arsenal's ambition has long been to surpass Manchester City, but in doing so, they have overlooked an obvious tactical set-up. The Rodri–Bernardo Silva–Kevin De Bruyne midfield should have served as the blueprint for the Gunners' rebuild in the post-Granit Xhaka LCM era.

Instead, they have played two defensive midfielders with just Odegaard as the ten. This setup has further suffocated Arsenal's creativity and forced the team to prioritise caution above all else.

Looking at the current squad, Arteta has four defensive midfielders in Rice, Zubimendi, Cristian Norgaard, and Mikel Merino, with just two number tens in Eberechi Eze and Odegaard. The balance is skewed, and it is showing.

Arsenal must reshape their midfield. With their world-class centre-backs William Saliba and Gabriel Magalhaes, they can play one holding midfielder and two number tens without being exposed defensively.

Reverting to such a system would help this Arsenal side generate more chances. This approach would give them a greater opportunity to win games with the ruthlessness they crave.

It may take time and sacrifice to perfect this tactical approach. But if Arsenal are serious about developing that fear factor, it could be worth it.

Starting this player, how to bypass the City block and the attitude needed to win

By Danong and 1970s Gooner 

Manchester City boss Pep Guardiola has equated the clash with Arsenal as the Premier League 2025-26 final.

Last time the two met, City tactically exposed an injury-plagued Arsenal side, fashioning a 2-0 win that clinched the Carabao Cup.

Much has happened since then; Arsenal have been knocked out of the FA Cup, suffered a defeat to Bournemouth, yet also just did enough to secure a Champions League semi-final spot. 

But all of that is behind them now. Arsenal need to deliver, find their rhythm and keep winning if they want to keep their title hopes alive.

Six points ahead of City, who have played a game less, a win would give Arsenal a comfortable cushion at the top. A defeat to the Manchester Blues, however, would cut the gap to just three points, heaping further pressure on the boys in red and white, because should City win their game in hand, the two sides would be level on points.

Arsenal have no excuses but to bring their A-game. Injuries, though, will still be a concern.

Bukayo Saka is confirmed to miss the game. Noni Madueke came off with a knock against Sporting CP, though Arteta was hopeful he would be fit. Ricardo Calafiori, Jurrien Timber and Martin Odegaard all remain doubtful; even so, given the sheer magnitude of the occasion, Arteta will surely field the strongest side he possibly can.

We could see Arsenal line up as follows:

Raya

White, Saliba, Gabriel, Hincapie 

Zubimendi, Rice, Eze

Madueke, Havertz, Trossard

Why Havertz over Gyokeres:

Havertz can drop deep and link up play far more effectively. Gyokeres is a fine finisher, but with Havertz leading the line, Arsenal's attack would be more fluid, creating the space for the wingers to attack. The German could keep the City defence occupied before Gyokeres is introduced from the bench to prey on tired legs.

That said, in the Carabao Cup final, City caused Arsenal problems by exploiting their weakness in playing out from the back, something Bournemouth also capitalised on. 

Starting Havertz would be logical as one option for Raya would be to go long to Havertz. The Arsenal number 10, say Eze, and a winger should move up closer to him and give support moving the team further up the field.

Alternatively Raya could chip balls to either wing as City in their four man press involve their wingers and/or their full backs leaving space behind them. 

If Arteta has found a solution to that vulnerability, City are certainly beatable. However implausible an Arsenal victory may seem after the recent dire performances that have been served. 

Especially if the Arsenal players play with gusto, confidence and belief. 

This statistic augurs well for Arsenal in their game against Sporting

By Danong 

Arsenal are back in action on Wednesday, with the Gunners hosting Portuguese heavyweights Sporting CP at the Emirates Stadium.

Yes, the Gunners head into this game with an advantage, a 1-0 lead in the tie, but that is arguably the trickiest lead they could hold in a Champions League knockout clash.

Sporting have reached this stage entirely on merit, and should Arsenal slip, they could easily turn things around and knock them out. Notably, the Primeira Liga outfit have failed to score in just one competitive away game all season.

Arsenal fans simply could not handle a Wednesday night Champions League heartbreak, not after that disappointing Saturday defeat, losing 2-1 to Bournemouth.

Mikel Arteta and his side will need to bring their A-game, yet doing so will be made harder by the absence of several key players.

A disappointing update from Arsenal's training ground confirms that Declan Rice was nowhere to be seen in their latest training session.

The Englishman joins a growing absentee list that already includes Bukayo Saka, Jurrien Timber, Martin Odegaard, Mikel Merino, and Riccardo Calafiori.

Even so, Arteta can still field a strong side that should be capable of handling Sporting.

That team could look like this:

Raya

White, Gabriel, Saliba, Lewis-Skelly

Nørgaard, Zubimendi, Eze

Madueke, Gyökeres, Martinelli.

It may not be the strongest line-up Arteta has put out, but it should carry more than enough quality to deal with a Sporting side that will be without key men Ivan Fresneda and Luís Guilherme.

Worth noting, however, is that their captain, Morten Hjulmand, returns for this game after missing the first leg through suspension.

What augurs well fir Arsenal is that Sporting have got a bad record in Europe when they lost the first tie losing 13 of 14 such ties. 

Three Arsenal wins and three draws, Sporting have never managed to beat the Gunners (over 90 minutes and extra time) and Wednesday is unlikely to be the day that changes.