Arsenal's chase for new arrivals this summer may have become more difficult to clinch following the latest reports
Mikel Arteta looks on
Mikel Arteta's chase for midfield reinforcements is ongoing(Image: Alex Caparros - UEFA/UEFA via Getty Images)
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Arsenal's attempts to rejuvenate their midfield have been dealt a blow. Piero Hincapie's loan deal being turned into a permanent move has been the Gunners' only business this summer so far where incomings are concerned.
Mikel Arteta's plans to bolster his squad, especially in the engine room, has been discussed at length with the Spaniard reportedly targeting two players in particular. The north Londoners are preparing to defend the Premier League title for the first time in 22 years as the Spaniard looks to strengthen while on top.
World Cup star warning
Ayyoub Bouaddi in action for Morocco
Manchester United, Liverpool and Arsenal have all been linked with signing Ayyoub Bouaddi(Image: Getty Images)
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Arsenal's reported interest in Morocco star Ayyoub Bouaddi has been well documented this summer. The 18-year-old Lille star has shone for his nation in the World Cup 2026 with the reigning AFCON champions making it to the quarter-finals where they'll face France.
The teenager is also said to have piqued the interest of Manchester United and Liverpool as the Premier League trio were told that they may need to bid above the £100million barrier if they want to sign Bouaddi.
Lille president Olivier Letang told Eurosport: "Many clubs are interested in him, but very few can afford him right now. He's already one of the best midfielders in the world and still has significant room for improvement. He's only 18 and has his whole future ahead of him. He's focused on continuing to develop and winning everything."
Citing the recent sales of Elliot Anderson and Sandro Tonali, Letang said: "How much have players like (Elliot) Anderson or (Sandro) Tonali been sold for, who are much older, but without room for improvement, so you have an idea of the value of Ayyoub, who has a unique profile at only 18 years old."
Prior to the president's comments, previous reports had suggested Lille valued the midfielder - who has three years left on his contract - at £60m.
Gunners told target is 'priceless'
Bruno Guimaraes clapping the crowd while playing for Brazil
Bruno Guimaraes's future is uncertain this summer(Image: Getty Images)
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Bouaddi isn't the only midfielder on Arsenal's wishlist as interest in Newcastle captain Bruno Guimaraes was reignited this summer. A verbal offer for the Brazilian was already knocked back by the Magpies, with the 28-year-old's representatives having been in contact with both clubs.
Eddie Howe has already said goodbye to Anthony Gordon and Tonali as allowing the third sale of another key star has been slammed shut by the Premier League side. On top of informing the Gunners that Guimaraes is not for sale, the club are reportedly planning to offer him a new contract.
The midfielder was subject to interest from Arsenal when he joined Newcastle in 2022 from Lyon. Prior to signing for the French club in 2020, he was on their radar during Arteta's first season in charge.