Here is your Arsenal morning digest for Friday, September 3.
Messi agrees with De Bruyne about Arsenal target
Lionel Messi, like Kevin De Bruyne, has previously praised reported Arsenal target Houssem Aouar, mentioning the Lyon star’s technical ability.
The Gunners have been heavily linked with a move for the talented French midfielder, with the Athletic claiming that Mikel Arteta’s side are now in talks for the 22-year-old.
Manchester City star De Bruyne has previously hailed the “fantastic” Aouar, and it seems he has another admirer in the form of Messi.
Messi said, after naming Aouar in his top 15 young players to watch earlier this year: “He is always calm with the ball at his feet with an excellent technical quality.”
Napoli chief confirms Sokratis interest
Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis has confirmed the club are interested in Arsenal defender Sokratis Papastathopoulos.
The Greek centre-back has slipped down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium, and with the Gunners recently signing Gabriel Magalhaes from Lille - it may be time for another chapter in his career.
As cited by Fabrizio Romano, De Laurentiis confirmed his club’s stance on the experienced defender.
“We’re working to get Sokratis Papastathopoulos from Arsenal, we’re considering him as an option,” the Napoli president said.
Campbell puts his name down to replace Ljungberg
Former Arsenal defender Sol Campbell has put his name down as a possible candidate to replace Freddie Ljungberg as assistant manager at the Gunners.
Ljungberg stepped down from his role as Arteta’s assistant as he looks to further his career in management.
Speaking on a Marvel YouTube feature, Campbell was asked if he’d be keen to replace his former team-mate.
The former Arsenal defender said: “Yeah, I would. If something came up, I would. I would love to. Put my name forward and I will be there.”
