A “world-class” player has turned down two new contract proposals as Arsenal initiates discussions with him.
His representatives have engaged in talks regarding a potential move to Arsenal, with sporting director Edu Gaspar reportedly prioritizing this acquisition.
As Mikel Arteta prepares for the upcoming North London Derby against Tottenham, he is also strategizing for the club’s transfer plans for 2025.
Following the signing of a new three-year contract, Arteta is fully focused on the match scheduled for Sunday.
Ahead of the 14:00 kickoff, Arteta faces several selection dilemmas, particularly with summer signing Mikel Merino out due to a shoulder injury, which is expected to keep him sidelined until at least mid-October.
Additionally, Declan Rice will miss the match due to suspension.
While there were concerns about Martin Ødegaard’s availability, Arteta has not completely ruled out the possibility of his captain participating in the trip to Spurs.
Both Gabriel Jesus and Riccardo Calafiori are also working to regain fitness for the match, indicating that the injury situation may not be as dire as initially thought.
Nonetheless, the absence of Merino and Rice creates a significant gap in Arsenal’s midfield.
This has led to speculation that Arteta might consider repositioning Kai Havertz into a midfield role, with new signing Raheem Sterling potentially taking on a false-nine position. The team’s formation will be closely watched.
On the recruitment front, Edu and the club’s scouting team are reportedly already planning for new signings for the next year.
Arsenal is said to be interested in Benjamin Sesko for 2025 and has made preliminary contact to get ahead of competitors.
Additionally, Arsenal has been linked with Jonathan David, who is among Ligue 1’s top scorers in recent seasons and will soon be available on a free transfer.
Arsenal has initiated discussions with Jonathan David’s representatives in anticipation of a potential transfer in January, as reported by CaughtOffside.
This approach differs from a pre-contract agreement that would allow him to join for free next summer.
The Canadian international has reportedly turned down two contract renewal offers from his current club, indicating his desire for a new opportunity.
It is understood that Edu is keen to prioritize David’s acquisition during the upcoming winter transfer window.
Additional reports suggest that Arsenal may entice David with a salary exceeding £96,000 per week, a compelling offer that would not even place him among the highest earners in Arteta’s squad.
Former Canada manager Iain Hume has labeled David as “world class,” highlighting the 24-year-old’s impressive tally of 153 senior career goals across club and international play.
“At his age, to possess such composure and a level-headed approach? He is indeed a world-class player at this moment,” Hume remarked in 2022.
“This is a Canadian talent. In today’s landscape, name more than five or six strikers who surpass him — you will likely find it challenging.”
