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Daily Mirror
Daily Mirror
Sport
Ben Husband

Stan and Josh Kroenke confirm "further" transfer negotiations after £54m double swoop

Arsenal owner Stane Kroenke and son Josh have assured fans they are confident the club will soon be “winning the game’s biggest trophies”.

The American ownership group came under fire earlier this year for their role in the doomed European Super League proposals.

Thousands of fans protested outside The Emirates for the final games of the season, despite the pandemic meaning no supporters were allowed in.

But it isn’t just decisions made off the field that have drawn the ire of fans, with the team itself suffering its worst malaise in more than 20 years.

Last season marked the first time that the Gunners missed out on European qualification since 1995 and manager Mikel Arteta made it clear that he would need to be backed.

Stan (right) and Josh (left) Kroenke will address fans in Sunday's programme (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)

And backed he has been. Arsenal are the top spending team in the Premier League, having brought in five players at a total outlay of almost £150million.

Martin Odegaard and Aaron Ramsdale became the club’s latest arrivals this week, having completed their £30m and £24m moves respectively.

And the Kroenkes have assured fans that even in a difficult transfer window, they have done all they can to help the team return to prominence.

Football.London have obtained the Kroenkes’ message which will be printed in the pre-match programme of Sunday’s clash with Chelsea.

"We know there is much work ahead to get back to where we need to be but are confident about what can be achieved by this great club and our people,” the statement begins.

"We are building a squad, rich in young talent, much of it developed through our wonderful academy.

“It is clear looking across Europe that we are dealing with a difficult transfer market due to the impacts of the pandemic but at the time of writing, are delighted to have signed Nuno Tavares, Sambi Lokonga and Ben White.

"We have also renewed the deals of Kieran Tierney and Emile Smith Rowe, both on a long-term basis.

"These are all young players that we are convinced can develop further and have a bright future with us.”

It was also confirmed that Granit Xhaka has signed a new contract with the club and promised that discussions are ongoing to improve the squad “further” to ensure they can challenge for major honours.

They continue: "They are supported by a strong group of more experienced players including Granit Xhaka, who has signed an extended contract. This is an important step in terms of maintaining balance and stability in the squad.

"In the meantime, the transfer negotiating team has been working hard behind the scenes to improve the squad further.

"Everyone at Arsenal is emerging from the pandemic determined to drive our club forward.

"Yes, there are many challenges ahead, but with your support and encouragement, we are confident we will return to competing for and winning the game's biggest trophies.”

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