Arteta is on the offensive this summerArteta is on the offensive this summer
Arteta is on the offensive this summer | Arsenal FC via Getty Images
Arsenal are said to be closing in on a midfielder deal while also searching for winger targets.
Arsenal are said to be well on their way to completing a deal for Martin Zubimendi, and they are also considering a current Premier League winger. The Gunners have not made use of the early 10-day transfer window, but they are expected to be plenty busy in the usual summer window.
Talks are ongoing with Thomas Partey, who could open up another spot, but the Gunners will be hoping to tie him down for another year due to the versatility he offers. The obvious candidate to replace Jorginho is Real Sociedad midfielder Zubimendi, who has been admired by Arteta for some time.
Zubimendi rejected Liverpool last summer, but it seems he is now ready to move on, and Arsenal are expected to wrap up the deal, according to The Athletic.
“There has been plenty of noise around Martin Zubimendi’s future — however the Spain midfielder’s transfer to Arsenal is regarded by the north London club as being done and signed,” the report reads. “Real Sociedad have expressed a preference for the deal to be ratified in July for accounting purposes, and Zubimendi is expected to link up with Arsenal for the start of pre-season.
“Our Real Madrid correspondent Mario Cortegana says sources in Madrid assert that the 15-time European champions like the player but did not pursue or actively work on recruiting him.”
Arsenal hoping for a winger
Elsewhere, Arsenal will be concentrating on striker and winger signings, and it’s claimed the Gunners could consider Newcastle United winger Anthony Gordon, among others.
“Arsenal are among those to keep an eye on this week, with work being carried out on a new striker and wide attacker,” the report added. “Benjamin Sesko, Viktor Gyokeres and Ollie Watkins have been prominent in their thoughts for the No 9 role, while the likes of Nico Williams, Rodrygo and Anthony Gordon have admirers at the Emirates Stadium as wingers.
“There should also be some clarity on the future of Thomas Partey in the coming days. The Ghana midfielder’s contract expires this summer, and there is still no agreement over a renewal. Should he depart, it is likely Arsenal will need to enter the market for a replacement. Arsenal are already on course to bring in Kepa Arrizabalaga from Chelsea for £5million.”
Newcastle signed Gordon for £40million from Everton, and it’s likely the Magpies would demand a huge fee to sell the winger this summer. Recent reports have suggested Gordon could cost around £100million, and that is a fee Arsenal are not likely to pay this summer given their other needs. The Gunners are going to have to spend big on a striker, and while a winger is also going to be pricey, a £100milllion investment in one player is highly unlikely this summer.
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