Arsenal’s summer transfer window is gathering pace once again, with Martin Zubimendi closing in on a move to the Gunners and fresh hope a deal can be agreed for Viktor Gyokeres
Arsenal’s summer transfer window looks to be turning a corner after some early setbacks. The Gunners have already completed a £5million move for Chelsea keeper Kepa Arrizabalaga.
They have now set their sights on finally sealing a long-awaited move for Martin Zubimendi. Negotiations between the Gunners and Real Sociedad have been ongoing for some time, but the move was derailed by late interest from Real Madrid.
Madrid’s interest took Sociedad by surprise and prompted concern at the Emirates that they would miss out on the midfielder. But Los Blancos now appear to have ditched their attempt to hijack the deal.
That provides a huge boost for Mikel Arteta, who is now also lining up a move for Viktor Gyokeres. Arsenal are preparing a new bid for the Sporting Lisbon striker, who is keen to move on.
But in a blow to Arteta’s summer plans, one of his targets has revealed he is not looking to make a move in this window. Here, Mirror Football rounds up all the latest Arsenal transfer news.
READ MORE: Sky Sports confirms major Premier League changes ahead of last day of seasonREAD MORE: Viktor Gyokeres preference clear as Man Utd and Arsenal bid to resolve transfer saga
Madrid ditch Zubimendi hijack
Real Madrid have decided to move on from Martin Zubimendi, in a major boost to Arsenal’s hopes of signing the midfielder. The Gunners have been attempting to complete their move for the Spaniard all summer but it was derailed by late interest from Madrid.
But according to AS, Madrid have now decided to ditch their attempts to hijack the deal. Los Blancos believe that Zubimendi is ‘escaping their orbit’ and have already begun the process of considering alternative options.
One of those options is to not make any new midfield signing, depending on Dean Huijsen’s performance at the Club World Cup. Arsenal are now putting the final touches on sealing their move for Zubimendi.
Hato rejects move
Ajax star Jorrel Hato has insisted he is happy with life in Amsterdam and is not looking to make a move this summer. Hato had emerged as a target for Arsenal, but the defender has made it clear that he sees his future as being at Ajax.
“In the Dutch league you have to show how good you are against the big clubs. Ultimately I have to continue to develop the things I am already good at, so that it becomes top”, he said. “How do I describe my time at Ajax? Ajax is home for me. I just feel at home here.
“I still have plenty of time. I don’t think: I absolutely have to win the Champions League in two years,” Hato continues his story. What is the youngster’s ultimate football dream? “That is winning a World Cup. You want to be there when it happens.”
Fresh Gyokeres bid submitted
Arsenal are set to submit a fresh bid for Sporting Lisbon star Viktor Gyokeres. The striker has emerged as the Gunners’ top target for the summer window as they look to bring in a new striker.
According to Maisfutebol, Sporting turned down Arsenal’s opening £55million offer for the Swedish star. The Premier League side are now set to up that offer though, with the club ready to submit a fresh bid that would exceed £59.5m.
The deal would comprise an upfront fee of £51m with another £8.5m in add-ons. There is said to be ‘growing optimisim’ among Gyokeres’ representatives that an agreement can be reached.
Join our new WhatsApp community and receive your daily dose of Mirror Football content. We also treat our community members to special offers, promotions, and adverts from us and our partners. If you don’t like our community, you can check out any time you like. If you’re curious, you can read our Privacy Notice.