It could be a very busy period in the summer transfer window next week as clubs aim to complete deals before the 2023-24 accounting deadline.
A number of sides could be forced to sell their star players before June 30 in order to balance the books and remain compliant with the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability regulations (PSR). Aston Villa, Everton, Newcastle, Leicester, Nottingham Forest and Chelsea are reportedly all at risk of violating PSR so there could be transfer movement in the coming days.
Arsenal may see this as an opportunity to improve their own squad and a number of players could be targeted from the aforementioned clubs. football.london understands the Gunners are keen to sign a number of players this summer as they look to challenge Manchester City for the title once again
Alexander Isak
football.london understands Newcastle United striker Isak is seen as the dream signing this window by the Gunners, with Arteta an admirer of the Sweden international. A deal will be hard to negotiate, however, as the Magpies seem reluctant to sell the 24-year-old.
Speaking about his future last month, Isak told Fotballskanalen: “I am enjoying myself at Newcastle, and I had the best season in my career — that should not be underestimated. I love everything about the club; the fans, and the city. It (my future) is not something I will speculate about, I have no thoughts on leaving. There has been no talk about it at the club and I have received no information that the could would have to sell me.”
According to The Telegraph Eddie Howe’s side are closing in on the signing of Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin. It remains to be seen if this will impact Isak’s future but Arsenal could look to test the Magpies’ resolve with a cheeky bid.
Bruno Guimaraes
Another Newcastle player who has been linked with a move to Emirates Stadium. The Gunners have been tracking Guimaraes for a number of years now and were linked with the 26-year-old when he was at Lyon.
football.london understands Arsenal’s priority this summer is signing a central midfielder and Guimaraes would compliment Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice in the midfield three. His price remains an obstacle, however, as it would take around £100million to persuade Newcastle to sell.
Amadou Onana
Everton’s financial issues are well documented and Onana could be let go to bring in some much needed funds. The midfielder is currently away with Belgium at Euro 2024 so a deal may be tricky to do but Onana has previously admitted he wishes to play for a ‘top club’ in the future.
Speaking to Het Laatste Nieuws, Onana said: “At previous tournaments you have seen that the players who did well make the step up to the top clubs. That’s something I strive for. I feel like presenting myself to the European top and showing what I have to offer. This European Championship is a stage.”
Conor Gallagher
Gallagher is about to enter the final year of his contract at Chelsea and the midfielder has been linked with a move to Arteta’s side in recent days. Reports suggest Arsenal have enquired about his availability, while Aston Villa and Tottenham are two other clubs who have been tracking the England international.
Chelsea value their midfielder, who appeared 50 times last season, at £42million, however, his deal expires in 2025 meaning he could be available for slightly less. It remains to be seen if Chelsea would sell to their north London rivals but a deal could suit both parties.
