Arsenal transfer latest: Mikel Arteta makes Bukayo Saka decision as Raphinha targeted
Arsenal are likely to have a busy summer in terms of incomings, but they must wait for the proper targets to forward Mikel Arteta’s vision.
The Gunners are expected to reinforce central midfield and center-forward during the transfer season, and there is no shortage of names linked with a move to the Emirates.
Manchester City’s Gabriel Jesus, Leicester’s Youri Tielemans, and Wolves’ Ruben Neves are all targets for the North Londoners, while Leeds winger Raphinha is a relatively fresh addition.
Here is Monday’s round-up, which includes the latest on Arsenal’s pursuit of the Brazilian – and how his arrival would affect Bukayo Saka – as well as other transfer updates involving the club.
Arsenal find Tielemans price tag
According to Gunners trade specialist Charles Watts, Arsenal will need to pay £25 million to capture Tielemans from Leicester.
The highly regarded 25-year-old has one season left on his contract at the King Power Stadium, so the Foxes must sell him this summer or risk losing him for free next season.
The Belgium international is expected to establish a powerful midfield tandem with Thomas Partey, especially given the uncertainty surrounding Granit Xhaka’s future.
The Switzerland international has many fans on the continent, and Bayer Leverkusen are rumoured to be interested in signing him.
Raphinha role emerges
According to GOAL, Arsenal would not sell Bukayo Saka even if they sign Raphinha, 25.
Saka’s future has been closely scrutinised because he has two years left on his contract, and Liverpool and Manchester City are said to be keeping an eye on the situation.
The signing of a right-winger by the Gunners would heighten speculation that Saka is on his way out of the Emirates, given this is where he typically plays.
However, according to the article, Arteta does not see Raphinha as a replacement for the 20-year-old, but rather as competition when Arsenal returns to Europa League action next season.
Maitland-Niles connected with Forest
According to football.london, Nottingham Forest are seeking to add proven Premier League experience to their ranks when they return to the top division by signing Ainsley Maitland-Niles.
After spending the second half of the 2021/22 season on loan at Roma, where he won the Europa Conference League, the versatile 24-year-old could be on the move this summer.
According to the source, Forest has made an official inquiry regarding Maitland-Niles, but a deal is still a long way off. The Englishman, who can play in a variety of midfield and defence roles, has made 132 appearances for the Gunners.
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Arsenal transfer latest: Mikel Arteta makes Bukayo Saka decision as Raphinha targeted
