Arsenal return to Champions League action on Wednesday as they look to make sure of a top-eight finish, but they do so with transfer movements remaining the focus behind the scenes
Arsenal are set to return to Champions League action on Wednesday night, aiming to secure a top-eight finish in the league phase.
However, transfer movements continue to dominate behind-the-scenes discussions.
Mikel Arteta bolstered his squad with three senior permanent additions over the summer, including Mikel Merino and Riccardo Calafiori, following David Raya’s £27m move from Brentford. Raheem Sterling and Neto also joined on loan, but have largely been sidelined this season.
The Gunners’ main concern lies in their attack, with injuries to Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus leaving them short-staffed. Benjamin Sesko is rumoured to be joining in the summer, but there’s a sense that more immediate reinforcements may be needed.
Aston Villa have reportedly joined the race for Sverre Nypan, indicating a potential battle for the Norwegian starlet. Arsenal remain interested in the 18 year old Rosenborg sensation, with Manchester City also linked, reports the Mirror.
Nypan was spotted watching Manchester City vs Chelsea on Saturday alongside his father and agent, and was expected to attend Aston Villa’s draw with West Ham on Sunday.
The young lad made his first appearance for Rosenborg at the tender age of 15, making him the youngest player in the club’s history. It’s still up in the air whether Norway and Arsenal skipper Martin Odegaard can persuade his fellow countryman to opt for North London.
Flamengo are still hopeful of signing Jorginho this month, according to the Mirror. The Brazilian team has long-term plans to sign the Italy international, who was born in Brazil, but they’re trying to make a move this January.
Jorginho, 31, only has half a year left on his current contract, but there’s an option to extend it by another year.
Arteta has repeatedly expressed his admiration for him both as a player and as a person. Despite Jorginho’s limited game time, Arsenal would be hesitant to let him go before the summer when they plan to finalise a deal for Real Sociedad’s Martin Zubimendi.
Alexander Isak is still high on Arsenal’s wishlist, despite Newcastle’s efforts to secure the Swede with a new long-term contract. The ex-Real Sociedad player was linked with the Gunners prior to his move to St James’ Park, and his performance in England has kept the interest alive.
According to Sky in Germany, Isak is a top priority for Mikel Arteta’s team. However, the report suggests that their approach would likely come in the summer rather than in the January window.
Isak has netted 17 league goals this season, just falling short of his career-high of 21. No Gunner has managed to score as many since the 2019-20 season when Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang finished the season with a tally of 22 in the league.
