Arsenal will only have a set number of weeks to complete two of their possible summer transfers. As well as having to navigate international tournaments in the coming months, plus pre-season and the Olympic games, new release clause stipulations have added another obstacle.
The Gunners are expected to be busy under Mikel Arteta and sporting director Edu Gaspar as they attempt to refresh and revamp the squad in an attempt to oust Manchester City at the top of the Premier League. Unlike last year, which only saw a limited number of arrivals and very little change, wholesale movement is now on the cards.
Arsenal are likely to see a host of their lesser-used squad options exit the club in order to build funds, comply with financial regulations, and give Arteta a stronger foundation to work with across four competitions. The focus coming in will be on quality not quantity in key areas.
Two of the positions of most importance are in midfield and upfront. Luckily for Edu there is no shortage of options. Arsenal are looking at Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi as a potential central addition whilst in attack they continue to be linked with Bologna’s Joshua Zirkzee amongst others.
Bruno Guimaraes is a player that has been on the club’s radar for some time and has a release clause in his current Newcastle deal, though the chances of a move this summer is small. His £100million price tag is a lot to pay, especially after Arsenal spent big on Declan Rice 12 months ago.
If they were to go in for the Brazilian destroyer, then the window of opportunity is also restrictive. Far from being a blanket clause that allows clubs access – if financially viable – Guimaraes will only be available for a short period.
With the transfer window not officially opening until June 14, Guimaraes’ clause is only active until June 30. During that period he will be away with his country ahead of the Copa America as well, complicating matters.
It leaves just two weeks for clubs to make use of Guimaraes’ lofty clause. Eddie Howe is planning for his star man to be around for another year regardless. “He is integral to what we are doing and we are desperate to keep him,” the Magpies boss said at the end of the season.
As for Zirzkee, there is less pressure on the immediate short-term to get him over the line, but even his £35million clause is not going to be an option all summer long. It is reported that clubs will have between July 1 and August 15 to activate the terms of his deal.
That certainly gives more leeway for Arsenal as well as some time to prepare an offer but it also comes in the thick of the summer.
