FootballTransfers understands that Arsenal have made an offer to Liam Delap’s representatives as they seek to sign a supporting striker alongside a more experienced and proven option.
In April, we exclusively reported that the Gunners had added Delap to their shortlist of striker targets after Andrea Berta successfully convinced Mikel Arteta to switch up the club’s transfer strategy.
The Italian has provided a fresh perspective on the situation at Arsenal, and he fully believes that the North London side need to focus on securing elite players who can make an immediate impact and deliver silverware in the short term.
Berta has been impressed with Delap’s performances in the Premier League this season and believes that the Ipswich Town forward would be an ideal understudy to Gyokeres.
Arsenal make Delap offer
We can now provide an update on the situation and reveal that Arsenal have formalised their interest in Delap. We are told that the Gunners have made an offer to the 22-year-old’s representatives, outlining exactly how they plan to use him.
Arsenal informed Delap that they are willing to match his demands, but they also made it clear that he would have to fight for his place and likely start out as second choice should Gyokeres – or another experienced striker – be signed.
We reported on Monday that Arsenal and Gyokeres are fully aligned in their vision for the future, but that more transfer meetings would be required as the Gunners still need to reach an agreement with Sporting CP, so his signing is not yet wrapped up.
Arsenal, who have no immediate concerns regarding Profitability and Sustainability Rules, are ready to pay Sporting’s asking price for the Swede as well as Delap’s €35 million release clause.
Delap himself is waiting to see how the Premier League race for the places in European competitions shapes up. He knows he is in demand and is not rushing into a decision over his next move.
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