Arsenal news: Mikel Arteta faces transfer headache after Alan Shearer’s warning

Arsenal are not in action this weekend after being knocked out of the FA Cup and no Premier League fixtures being scheduled, meaning transfers are now at the forefront

Arsenal have a rare weekend off this week to digest what has been a difficult week.

The Gunners’ title challenge already looks to be in tatters after being held by Nottingham Forest in their most recent outing. Liverpool’s win against Newcastle saw them move 13 points clear as a result.

With Arsenal are not in action this weekend, they have plenty of time to get prepared for next week’s Champions League clash with PSV. Europe looks like the only route to silverware for the North London club.

Away from their upcoming game, transfers have also been on the agenda for Arsenal over the past 24 hours. Take a look at the standout headlines:

Arsenal face Barcelona competition

Arsenal are facing competition from Spanish giants for one of their main summer targets. Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia has been identified as a potential arrival to provide competition to David Raya.

Arsenal are long-term admirers of the 23-year-old having seen an approach rebuffed but are expected to reignite their interest. But a deal might not be straight-forward though.

Barcelona and German side Bayer Leverkusen have approached Garcia’s representatives Niagara Sports Company to express an interest in a move. Espanyol might turn down a move from Barcelona given the rivalry between the two clubs, albeit cash is not expected to be an issue for the Catalan giants.

What has gone wrong for Arsenal recently? Share your thoughts in the comments below

Shearer sends warning

Alan Shearer believes Arsenal’s failure to sign a striker has cost them the Premier League title. Speaking on The Rest Is Football podcast, Shearer said: “I know they’ve got injuries but the conversation about Arsenal and a centre forward is never going away, unfortunately for Arsenal. Even when they had all their players fit.

“We said it at the beginning of the season. My title tip was Arsenal – IF they got a centre forward in.

“But if they didn’t I didn’t fancy them and unfortunately for them injuries have caught up with them and they’re not winning the title now.”

Arsenal hold Kimmich talks

While a striker has not been signed, Arsenal could potentially choose to add a hugely decorated midfielder to their squad. According to Sky in Germany, the North London side are interested in a move for Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich.

The German is available on a free transfer with his contract at the Allianz Arena set to expire in the summer. It is reported that Arsenal have already held talks with him regarding a move.

Kimmich would be seen as a potential replacement for Jorginho, who is expected to leave the Emirates Stadium this summer.

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