Arsenal are close to making Kepa Arrizabalaga their first summer signing. Mikel Arteta’s side are in the market to recruit a back-up goalkeeper with Neto returning to Bournemouth at the end of his loan.
After losing out on Joan Garcia to Barcelona, Arsenal have turned their attention to Kepa and are closing in on agreement to bring the former Real Madrid man to the Emirates Stadium. football.london understands that the Gunners are set to activate his £5million release clause to secure his services.
He is expected to be the first of several through the door this summer. Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta is keen to bring a new No.9 to north London, with Viktor Gyokeres and Benjamin Sesko targeted. Elsewhere, Martin Zubimendi is the midfielder Arsenal want, though he could still remain at Real Sociedad.
Here, we take a look at the latest Arsenal transfer rumours…
Leao exit
Sky Sports Deutschland reporter Florian Plettenberg has reported that Rafael Leao is looking to leave AC Milan this summer. It is claimed the Italian giants want £59million before agreeing to sell him.
Bayern Munich are thought to be keen on the Portuguese winger but Leao has previously been informed by Arsenal sporting director Andrea Berta that he is a player of interest, according to reports.
FL says: There is no doubt that Leao is a real talent and Arsenal could benefit from having someone of his calibre in the squad next season. It’s clear that the club’s top priority is signing a No.9 but once that is done, the Gunners should look at signing a left-winger to compete with Gabriel Martinelli.
Leao, at his price, might be the perfect candidate. He has the physical profile – a tall, powerful and quick winger – to impress in the Premier League and also has the technical brilliance. At 25, Leao, who has scored 12 times and provided 13 assists in 50 matches this season, still has time on his side, too.
Rodrygo demand
According to GiveMeSport, Rodrygo has told Arsenal exactly how much he would be wanting to make the move from Real Madrid this summer. It is believed that the 24-year-old would be looking for a wage in the region of £250,000 per week if he was to leave Real and sign for the Gunners.
Capology’s information believes that would make Rodrygo one of the highest earners at the Emirates Stadium with only Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus earning more.
FL says: Rodygo is a terrific footballer and someone that would strengthen the Arsenal squad, there is no doubt about. But is he the type of player that the Gunners need at this moment in time? I don’t think so.
Having played most of his football at Real Madrid off the right-hand side, Arsenal have Bukayo Saka and Ethan Nwaneri in that position and do not need to strengthen in that area. Although Rodrygo can be used on the left, Arsenal would be better off targeting a more natural left winger, such as Leao.
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