Arsenal head coach Mikel Arteta completed the first signing of his tenure at the Emirates Stadium today, landing Flamengo defender Pablo Mari on loan.
The Spanish centre-back, previously of Manchester City, has joined the Gunners on loan until the end of the season with a view to a permanent move.
And Mari’s arrival could be just the start of a busy ending to the window for the Gunners, with the club close to signing Southampton right-back Cedric Soares as well.
Here, we round up the day’s latest Arsenal transfer news.
Ceballos’ exit plan
On-loan Real Madrid midfielder Dani Ceballos is hoping to bring an end to his stay at the Emirates Stadium by Friday’s 11pm deadline.
The Express are reporting that Ceballos wants to seal a way out of the North London club after falling out-of-favour.
The Spain international was a key fixture under Unai Emery earlier in the campaign but has found opportunities hard to come by under Arteta.
Barcelona make Aubameyang decision
The Express are also reporting that Barcelona have decided against pursuing a deal for Gunners ace Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
The striker has been subject of big interest from the La Liga giants over the past few days, with Barcelona desperate to add a striker to their ranks following an injury to Luis Suarez.
Now, though, it seems highly unlikely that any deal will happen, with Aubameyang poised to stay in North London.
Blades name their price for Fleck
Arsenal would have to stump up a fee in the region of £20m in the final few days of the transfer window if they are to want to sign Sheffield United midfielder John Fleck, according to the Daily Mail.
Fleck has taken to the Premier League like a duck to water this season with the Blades and has been one of their most consistent performers.
But Arsenal would face a huge battle to land the Scotland international, as well as a rather pricey £20m transfer fee.
