football.london

Arsenal latest: Surprise William Saliba replacement targeted as Tottenham beat to signing

Football London Icon

Arsenal

Arsenal Transfer News

Arsenal transfer news## A look at the latest headlines surrounding Arsenal as the transfer window continues to dominate discussion

05:00, 21 Jul 2026

Arsenal have already started adding to their squad this summer and things could be about to ramp up. The Gunners have signed Illan Meslier and converted Piero Hincapie's loan move into a permanent deal but there's plenty of room for more.

Exits for Karl Hein, Jakub Kiwior and Leandro Trossard have been agreed, with more ins and outs anticipated before the season starts. Mikel Arteta might not have as much to spend as this time last year but the reigning league champions could yet strengthen up front.

The first of Arsenal's pre-season friendlies is scheduled for August 1, with World Cup stars starting to make their returns before then. Three of them will come back as world champions, with David Raya, Mikel Merino and Martin Zubimendi part of a successful Spain squad.

FOLLOW OUR ARSENAL FB PAGE! Latest Gunners news, analysis and much more via our dedicated Facebook page

For the time being, though, transfers are the focus. Here are our latest updates from around the Emirates Stadium.

Arsenal poach teen from Spurs

Arsenal have struck an agreement to sign youngster Elijah Upson, who reportedly turned down a new deal with Tottenham before crossing north London. The teenage centre-back is the son of England international Matt, who played in the same position for the Gunners.

The 18-year-old featured 23 times across all competitions for Spurs' youth sides last season. He lined up at the heart of defence in a 4-1 north London derby victory in the Under-18 Premier League and was also a regular in the UEFA Youth League.

Elijah's father Matt also joined Arsenal as an 18-year-old after starting his career with Luton Town. He won the Premier League under Arsene Wenger and also played and scored for England at the 2010 World Cup when he was on the books of West Ham United.

Stones could make surprise move

Manchester City and England defender John Stones has emerged as a surprise target for Arsenal. According to The Sun, the Gunners view him as potential short-term cover for the injured William Saliba, with his availability on a free transfer making him an appealing option.

Stones departed City at the conclusion of June after spending over 10 years at the Etihad Stadium, with Inter Milan also linked with a swoop. Mikel Arteta worked with the centre-back during that period, having spent time on Pep Guardiola's coaching staff.

Arsenal are yet to learn whether Saliba will need surgery to repair a back problem which he aggravated at the World Cup. The French international was forced off in the semi-final defeat against Spain.

Article continues below

Get Arsenal's new 2026/27 home kit

This article contains affiliate links, we will receive a commission on any sales we generate from it. Learn more

Content Image

Arsenal have launched their new home kit for the 2026/27 season, said to incorporate classic Arsenal design features that tie into the club's heritage.

Choose Football London as a 'Preferred Source' on Google News for quick access to the news you value.

Google Preferred Source Badge

Football odds

Morning roundup

Arsenal transfer news

William Saliba

John Stones

Manchester City

Read full news in source page