With the Premier League season edging ever closer, we are now approaching the time in the transfer window where teams look to close deals as quickly as possible.
This appears to be the way of thinking for Mikel Arteta and Arsenal, who are back in action next weekend against Liverpool in the Community Shield.
Arteta’s first campaign in charge at the Gunners was an impressive one after the club’s 14th FA Cup triumph, but the Spaniard is well aware there is plenty more to improve on.
This morning’s transfer rumours would suggest that Arsenal are closing in at least one deal - and here they are.
Gunners set to close deal for Gabriel today
Arsenal could complete a deal to sign Lille defender Gabriel Magalhaes today, despite a late bid from Manchester United.
That’s according to Gianluca di Marzio, an Italian transfer specialist, who claims the Gunners have made an “intriguing offer” to Lille.
United made a late move for the Brazilian centre-back, but Arsenal matched Napoli’s offer of €26m plus €4m add-ons, according to the report.
This means Magalhaes is now very close to joining the Gunners, and bar a late bid from United, the deal could be completed today.
Man City competition for Aouar
Manchester City have entered the race to sign Lyon star Houssem Aouar - who is also a reported Arsenal target.
ESPN are reporting that City approached the French midfielder days after he impressed for Lyon in their shock Champions League victory over Pep Guardiola’s side.
However, Arsenal have already held talks with the Ligue 1 club’s sporting director Juninho, and mentioned the possibility of swapping Matteo Guendouzi as part of the deal.
Lyon have informed Aouar that they would let him leave the club this summer, as they look to raise funds following the coronavirus pandemic.
Wolves interested in Maitland-Niles
Wolves have registered an interest in Arsenal defender/midfielder Ainsley Maitland-Niles, according to Sky Sports.
Tottenham Hotspur have also been linked with a move for the 22-year-old, as well as Newcastle United, but the report says that Spurs have denied making a bid.
The Daily Mail reported on Thursday that the Gunners would consider offers in the region of £20m for Maitland-Niles.
The versatile player made 32 appearances for Arsenal last season and starred in the Gunners’ FA Cup final win over Chelsea earlier in the month.
