Berta will lead Arsenal's transfers this summerBerta will lead Arsenal's transfers this summer
Berta will lead Arsenal's transfers this summer | Arsenal FC via Getty Images
All the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding Arsenal as they look to kick off the summer transfer window.
Arsenal will now be looking to push on with their transfer plans as the 10-day early window swings open. The early window will give clubs the chance to strengthen before what is perceived as a disruptive FIFA Club World Cup in mid-June.
The Gunners will want to make the most of the early window, and they are expected to be bold in the market this summer, needing to upgrade a number of positions, especially at striker and out wide. Here we round up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding the Emirates Stadium.
Leoni links
Arsenal are said to be battling Manchester United for Italian defender Giovanni Leoni, who currently plays for Parma. The 18-year-old is quickly gaining attention, according to FootballTransfers, and it’s claimed Arsenal are ‘prioritising’ a move for the young talent.
It’s claimed sporting director Andrea Berta is leading negotiations, hoping to beat Manchester United and Juventus to the deal. Leoni has made 17 league appearances for Parma so far, and he is not likely to challenge for a starting spot at the Gunners in the near future, so it’s likely it is a signing for the future.
Garcia miss
Arsenal need a new back-up goalkeeper this summer with Neto headed back to Bournemouth, but it looks as though they will miss out on long-term goalkeeper target Joan Garcia, a player they tried to sign last summer.
Fabrizio Romano has tweeted: “The agreement between Barça and Joan García on long term deal is now very advanced, almost done. Negotiations underway with Spanish GK with club confident to get his green light in the upcoming days. Barça want to get it done asap and anticipate Premier League clubs.”
Rodrygo blow
Real Madrid winger Rodrygo has been linked with a move to Arsenal in recent weeks amid the Gunners’ search for a wideman. A deal involving Rodrygo was always going to be a very expensive one, but it seems there will not be a deal any time soon.
According to Marca, Rodrygo wants to stay at Real Madrid this summer and wants to prove himself to new boss Xabi Alonso. It’s reported Alonso will spend the next 45 days reminding his players of the club’s standards and sounding out his squad for the new campaign.
Alonso faces a big summer as he looks to settle into his new job. He said upon arriving: “It’s a very special day that I’ll mark in my calendar for life. I’m very happy to be here, at home. I was away for a few years, but the connection with Real Madrid has always been there. Since I arrived at Valdebebas, that feeling was reborn and ignited. It’s the beginning of a new era and I want to thank the president for his confidence and for thinking that I am the right person to lead this new era, which I face with energy and enthusiasm. I feel that Real Madrid fans have that enthusiasm for a new era and for making the history of this club even greater.
“An era has come to an end with Ancelotti, who was my coach, influenced me, and had a huge impact on me. Without the lessons I learned from him, I wouldn't be here. I carry on his legacy with honor and pride to be in the place where he did so well. I hope I can live up to expectations. We're starting a new era, and I feel we have a great team. That gives me reason to come here with energy and the desire to get the best out of each of them and build a good team. We can achieve important things, worthy of Real Madrid and the titles it has won. We want to convey emotions to the fans and make them enjoy and be proud of their team. Hala Madrid!”
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