Here are the Arsenal morning headlines for Thursday, July 23.
Arsenal ‘optimistic’ over Willian deal
Arsenal have emerged as frontrunners to sign Chelsea winger Willian this summer, according to ESPN Brazil.
The Brazil international is set to depart Stamford Bridge at the end of this season, and his final appearance for the Blues could come against Arsenal in the FA Cup final.
The Gunners and Tottenham Hotspur have both been linked with Willian in recent months, but Arsenal are now reportedly ‘optimistic’ about their chances of winning the race for his signature.
Willian’s agent, Kia Joorabchian, appears to have a close relationship with the Arsenal hierarchy, and that could help the club get a deal over the line.
With finances expected to be tight this summer, it’s no surprise that Mikel Arteta is interested in signing the 32-year-old on a free transfer.
Liverpool coach gives Arsenal verdict
Liverpool assistant Peter Krawietz believes Arsenal will be much stronger next season as Arteta continues to get his ideas across.
The Gunners are 10th in the Premier League table heading into the final weekend but there have been signs of improvement since Arteta took charge in December.
Arsenal beat Liverpool in the Premier League last week, before overcoming Manchester City in the FA Cup semi-final.
"I see first and foremost some teams that are in the process of developing their footballing skills,” he told Goal.
"What has happened at Chelsea over the course of the season makes it clear that they will be a really good side.
"Arsenal, too, despite the difficult season, have already seen that they will benefit from the work under Mikel Arteta in the future.”
Brighton eye Maitland-Niles move - report
Brighton & Hove Albion are keeping tabs on Ainsley-Maitland Niles ahead of a potential summer swoop.
According to the Standard, the Seagulls could make an offer for the Arsenal academy product in the coming weeks.
Maitland-Niles has been in and out of the side this term and may be open to a move to secure more regular first-team football.
A midfielder by trade, the 22-year-old has made most of his appearances at full-back or wing-back under Arteta.
Maitland-Niles, who is under contract at the Emirates until 2023, has played 30 times for Arsenal this season.
