Gazidis eyes Arsenal target
Former Arsenal director Ivan Gazidis is said to be after RB Leipzig’s Dayot Upamecano this summer.
Gazidis is currently an executive at Italian side AC Milan and has reportedly expressed an interest in signing the French centre-back who has 12 months left to run on his current deal.
Upamecano’s signature has been one of the most sought-after this season, having impressed under Julian Nagelsmann. Arsenal have been linked extensively, but financial predictions indicate Arsenal may not be able to afford the defender.
Gazidis and AC Milan may be trying to sweep in to steal the 21-year-old from under Arsenal’s noses, but that may not be the case.
For more on Upamecano’s future and where he may end up next season, read the full piece here .
Leno ready to spring a surprise
Arsenal return to Premier League action next week against last season’s title-winners Manchester City.
German goalkeeper Bernd Leno has suggested Arsenal may be able to surprise the Champions following the league’s resumption.
Facing Manchester City is undoubtedly one of Arsenal’s toughest games of the season and have lost their last six encounters with Pep Guardiola’s side.
Leno however, remains confident that Mikel Arteta’s tactics can catch City off-guard given his experiences of working under Guardiola.
“It’s the first big game and I think we can surprise them.
“He knows exactly every player. He knows the manager better than anybody else. I think Mikel will have a good gameplan as always.”
Arsenal’s preparations took a hit earlier this week, with a 3-2 loss to Brentford in a behind-closed-doors friendly.
For Bernd Leno’s full quotes on Arteta and Arsenal’s preparation, click here .
Pablo Marí wants Arsenal stay
Spanish defender Pablo Marí is hoping for a strong finish to the Premier League season in order to push through a permanent move to Arsenal.
The 26-year-old has expressed his hopes that the club will take up the otion to sign him outright dull time following his loan switch to the Emirates Stadium in January.
In an interview with the Guardian , Marí shared his desire to settle in London, preferably at Arsenal.
“I’m happy and I’d really like Arsenal to use the purchase option.
“My moment has arrived. The chance to sign for four years, an opportunity I think I’ve earned. It’s time. I like the idea of no longer going round and round.”
The purchase option is set at a reported £8 million, however Arsenal’s financial situation remains uncertain due to the coronavirus situation, casting doubt over Marí’s future.
Owned by Brazilian outfit Flamengo, Marí has made just two appearances for Arsenal since his switch.
For more on Marí and Arsenal’s future, read here .
