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Arsenal close to major transfer announcement as'next Lautaro Martinez'deal identified

Arsenal are back in action when they travel to Manchester United in the Premier League on Sunday.

Mikel Arteta's side suffered another blow in their pursuit of winning the title on Saturday, even if they didn't play. That is because Liverpool moved 16 points clear at the top with a 3-1 win over Southampton.

Although the Gunners have two games in hand on the Reds, it does feel as though the gap is getting unsurmountable. But there is no doubt Arteta won't be thinking about it like that.

The Arsenal boss is still going to have some belief that they can win the title, though a win at Old Trafford is a must. The Gunners travel to Manchester looking to get back to winning ways.

After two games without a win in the top flight, the Gunners need to record maximum points if they stand any chance of pipping Liverpool and putting some late pressure on.

Ahead of Arsenal's trip to Old Trafford, football.london have taken a look at the latest news from the Gunners...

Edu replacement

Arsenal are close to appointing Andrea Berta as their new sporting director, according to Fabrizio Romano. The 53-year-old former Atletico Madrid chief is set to replace Edu, who left the club back in November.

Berta left Atletico at the beginning of January, where the Italian had worked for 12 years in a similar position, and has been without a job since then. He has established quite the reputation out in Madrid and helped Atletico become such a force in both Spain and across European football.

FL says: On paper, this looks like a smart appointment by Arsenal. Berta is clearly an astute operator and could work wonders at the Emirates Stadium if he is given time and the tools to deliver.

The timing of Berta's appointment is also key. He is expected to be in situe in time to get plans ready for the summer transfer window - one that is going to be vitally important for the Gunners.

Having helped sign some destructive strikers over the years for Atletico, such as Julian Alvaraz, he could do the same for Arsenal and that would no doubt get Gunners fans excited.

Castro eyed

Arsenal are closely monitoring Bologna forward Santiago Castro as they look to strengthen their forward line, according to FootballTransfers. Castro, 20, has impressed in Serie A since joining from Velez Sarsfield in January 2024. This season, the Argentine has scored seven goals and added four assists in 26 matches.

The youngster has drawn comparisons to Lautaro Martinez of Inter Milan and earned the nickname 'Mini Lautaro'. It's added that Arsenal's scouting department have been impressed by his performances.

FL says: It's clear that Arsenal need to sign a No.9 this summer and Castro could be a good signing. Yes, he hasn't had much first-team experience since his professional debut three years ago, but he is a raw talent and has the potential to become an elite performer in the future.

Is it what Arsenal need now? That does remain to be seen, but there is no doubt Castro could be an astute addition. He is a player who attempts many shots per game and a huge physical presence up front.

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