Mikel Arteta has been handed another Arsenal injury blow with Gabriel Martinelli set for a spell on the sidelines. Despite both Gabriel Jesus and Bukayo Saka picking up long-term injuries, the Gunners did not welcome any new signings in the January transfer window.
There was interest in both Ollie Watkins and Mathys Tel, among others, though the latter ended up joining Tottenham. Watkins, meanwhile, who was the subject of a January bid from Emirates Stadium, remained at Aston Villa after Jhon Duran was sold to Al-Nassr.
Attention will now seemingly turn to the summer window, with a huge one expected in north London. However, signing players may not be the only task, with a fresh update on Real Madrid’s pursuit of William Saliba coming to light.
The Gunners could also revisit a deal for one player they were said to have bid for during the winter window, but not Watkins.
Saliba to Madrid update
Madrid are prepared to make Saliba the most expensive defender in football history. The Frenchman has been linked with a move to Los Blancos for some time, and their ongoing injury crisis at the back means it is very likely they will pursue a deal.
January bid for Torres rejected
As per Spanish outlet El Nacional, Barcelona rejected a £16.7million (€20m) for Ferran Torres from Arsenal in January, while approaches from Napoli, Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan were also turned down.
The former Manchester City man has struggled for consistent minutes due to injury while also having to compete with Raphinha, Robert Lewandowski and Lamine Yamal for a spot in the starting XI.
