Arsenal are now deadly serious about signing an "unbelievable" Premier League star, in a blow for Manchester United.
Gunners eyeing summer signings amid injury concerns
Heading into a crucial stage of the season, injuries are the last thing Mikel Arteta will want to be worrying about, but 12 players could now be suffering issues, with 11 withdrawing from international duty.
Noni Madueke was injured by Rodrigo Aguirre in the first half of England's 1-1 draw against Uruguay, with Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka since being sent home due to 'minor' problems, although Thomas Tuchel has made it clear he's not disappointed with any player who pulls out.
Losing Rice would arguably be the biggest blow, with the 27-year-old's importance underlined by the fact he's missed just one Premier League game this season.
However, it would be less of an issue if Arteta had greater strength in depth in the middle of the park, and there has now been a new update on the Gunners' pursuit of a midfielder.
Arsenal desperate to sign "unbelievable" star
According to a report from TEAMtalk, Arsenal are now deadly serious about signing Newcastle United star Sandro Tonali, and they are desperate to get a deal over the line, in a blow for rival suitors Manchester United.
Tonali is the Red Devils' top target for the summer, but the Gunners are determined to win the race, and they have already held talks about a deal for the Italian maestro, who is valued at up to £100m.
Italy's Sandro Tonali celebrates scoring their first goal with Giacomo Raspadori
Arteta is said to have a 'deep affection' for the Newcastle midfielder, who has been a key player for Eddie Howe across the past two campaigns, making a combined 65 appearances.
Teammate Bruno Guimaraes has been left extremely impressed by the Italy international's performances, saying: "Yeah, he's pretty good. Very good. Very good number six. A gladiator. He's able to make the team play, to recover the ball. He's been unbelievable, in my point of view. What a player!
Arsenal's Viktor Gyokeres, Gabriel Jesus and Eberechi Eze look dejected after losing the Carabao Cup Final to Manchester City Related
Arsenal now in talks to sign 17-goal Gabriel Jesus replacement
The Gunners have held discussions to sign a striker.
The former Juventus man averaged 1.2 interceptions per 90 in the Premier League last term, the second-highest number of any Newcastle player, and he is able to contribute going forward too, amassing 20 goal contributions in 104 games for the Magpies.
Tonali would provide Arteta with fantastic depth in midfield, but the manager could have a selection dilemma on his hands if the likes of Rice, Zubimendi, Eberechi Eze, Martin Odegaard are all available for selection.