Arsenal are set to be busy in the summer transfer market as Mikel Arteta prepares to build a side capable of winning the Premier League title. Here is the latest transfer news and rumours from the Emirates Stadium, including updates on Viktor Gyokeres and Joan Garcia.
Arsenal open Gyokeres talks
Arsenal have started official discussions to sign Viktor Gyokeres from Sporting CP.
FootballTransfers reported in early April that Gyokeres has been made the leading priority for new sporting director Andrea Berta and that the Gunners are trying to push through a deal early in the summer.
Joan Garcia: Espanyol keeper compared to Messi
Another area where Arsenal are targeting a new recruit in the summer is goalkeeper – with Espanyol shot-stopper Joan Garcia emerging as the player the Gunners want to compete with David Raya for the gloves.
Now the 23-year-old has been compared to eight-time Ballon d’Or winner Lionel Messi because of his match-deciding qualities.
Speaking to DAZN, Espanyol head coach Manolo Gimenez said: “Joan Garcia will be a world reference, without a doubt. Hopefully, because he deserves it, by level and by person. This is the same as when Barcelona had Messi. There was a stuck game and he solved it.”
Real Madrid are also thought to be targeting the keeper.
Gunners want ‘mini-Salah’
Arsenal are one of a number of clubs chasing Brentford striker Bryan Mbeumo, according to CaughtOffside.
Liverpool and Manchester United are the likeliest competition for the Gunners as they chase the Frenchman, but there is also interest from Newcastle United, who are likely to be put off by the player’s (£50m) price tag.
Mbeumo was previously labelled a ‘mini-Salah’ after a campaign that has seen him score 18 goals and create seven more in all competitions.
Arsenal’s priority in the wide area is Athletic Club winger Nico Williams.
Shock name added to defensive shortlist with Huijsen
Arsenal could make a double move in the heart of their defence in the summer, with Arteta eager to provide competition for William Saliba and Gabriel.
TBR believes the Gunners are following both Bournemouth defender Dean Huijsen, who is wanted by a string of major clubs, including Real Madrid and Liverpool, as well as Brentford centre-back Nathan Collins.
