Here are your Arsenal morning headlines for Monday, 31 August.
Aubameyang rejected other clubs
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang continued his fine run of form by scoring Arsenal’s goal in their Community Shield success against Liverpool.
It was his fifth Wembley goal in little over a month, and his 10th in his last 10 matches.
The Gabon international also scored in the penalty shoot-out, so it’s no wonder Arsenal want him to extend his contract.
And according to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Aubameyang has turned down two other clubs in order to commit his future to the Gunners.
"Mikel Arteta just confirmed again that Pierre Aubameyang is 'close' to extend his contract,” he tweeted.
Saka becoming a key part of Arteta’s team
Aubameyang wasn’t the only Arsenal player who did well at Wembley on Saturday afternoon. Bukayo Saka also showed what he was capable of in a fine performance.
The 18-year-old assisted Arsenal’s goal, and created three chances in total. That was the most by any of Arteta’s players, and the joint-most for either side.
Reece Chambers has taken an in-depth look at Saka’s efforts against Liverpool, which suggests the young man is becoming an essential component of the new-look Arsenal.
Saka could be one of Arsenal’s key players in 2020/21 as Arteta looks to secure a top-four finish in the Premier League.
Arsenal to strengthen midfield via Lyon?
Arteta is starting to make strides towards shaping the Arsenal squad to fit his requirements ahead of his first full season in charge.
Willian has signed on a free transfer from Chelsea to improve the attacking options, while Gabriel Magalhaes is expected to join from Lille to strengthen the defence.
But what about in midfield?
It has been strongly rumoured that Thomas Partey of Atletico Madrid is on Arteta’s wish list, but if that deal can’t be completed, how about Houssem Aouar from Lyon?
Aouar was certainly impressive in Lyon’s recent run to the Champions League semi-finals, and one Manchester City midfielder has identified him as the French club’s best player.
