Football news: Arsenal transfer edges closer as Kevin De Bruyne makes contract decision

Arsenal are set for another lavish summer as they target Martin Zubimendi while Manchester City will wave goodbye to Kevin De Bruyne, who’s made a decision on his Club World Cup predicament

The climax of the season is almost here but clubs are already planning for next term. With another weekend of Premier League and FA Cup action ahead of us, we’re drawing ever closer to the summer transfer window.

Still in with the slightest chance of winning the Premier League title, Arsenal are expected to be bolster their squad once again over the summer months. The Gunners don’t play this weekend, so will have full focus on next Tuesday’s Champions League semi-final first leg at home to Paris Saint-Germain.

Meanwhile, Manchester City are in FA Cup action on Sunday. Pep Guardiola’s side play Nottingham Forest at Wembley for a place against either Aston Villa or Crystal Palace in the final.

Elsewhere, the race to qualify for Europe is heating up, with four remaining Champions League spots up for grabs. And there could be a third and final relegation confirmed as Ipswich teeter on the edge.

Here’s a round-up of the latest stories.

READ MORE: Xabi Alonso may put Arsenal’s first summer transfer in jeopardyREAD MORE: Mark Lawrenson picks out six Liverpool stars key to imminent title success

Arsenal confident about Zubimendi

Arsenal remain in advanced talks to sign Martin Zubimendi, with boss Mikel Arteta and new sporting director Andrea Berta in agreement over paying his £52million release clause. Zubimendi, 26, is expected to become the Gunners’ first signing of the summer, despite interest from Real Madrid.

ESPN report that Berta has been convinced that the Spain international can strengthen Arsenal’s midfield which could undergo major surgery in the coming months. Both Thomas Partey and Jorginho are out of contract in June, although Arteta wants to keep one of them.

Read the full story on Zubimendi here.

De Bruyne makes Man City contract decision

Kevin De Bruyne has decided that he won’t sign a new short-term contract with Manchester City for the Club World Cup. De Bruyne’s current deal is due to expire on June 30 – midway through the summer tournament.

Pep Guardiola wants the City legend to be part of his squad travelling to the United States and he’ll be obliged to feature in their group stage fixtures which end on June 26. But the Star report that De Bruyne, 33, is reluctant to play and risk an injury which could dent his chances of finding a new club, and he hopes that the club will understand his situation.

Read the full story on De Bruyne here.

Which club should sign Kevin De Bruyne? Give us your pick in the comments section.

Howe returns to Newcastle duties

Newcastle have confirmed that manager Eddie Howe has resumed his duties after spending time in hospital with pneumonia. Magpies boss Howe missed a total of three matches as assistant Jason Tindall took charge.

But he’ll be back on the touchline at St James’ Park when Newcastle host Ipswich on Saturday. A statement read: “Newcastle United are delighted to confirm that Eddie Howe has returned to his duties at the club’s Training Centre. Eddie had recently been hospitalised with pneumonia and has now returned to work after a period of recovery. We thank supporters for their warm wishes.”

Read what Howe had to say here.

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