Mikel Arteta and Arsenal face an important summer after narrowly missing out on the Premier League title last season, but they don’t appear to be making the same early moves as some other English clubs.
The Gunners only made one June signing last summer, bringing Kai Havertz across London from Chelsea. More than a fortnight passed between that deal and the swoops for Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice, while David Raya didn’t arrive on loan from Brentford until August.
Arteta’s team were narrowly pipped to the top spot by Manchester City last term, and there have been calls for them to add a new striker. An extra midfielder could also be on the cards, especially if Thomas Partey leaves, while Raya’s loan is expected to become permanent.
While no big moves have been announced just yet, there has been some movement, including a new contract for one of their number. Here are Mirror Football‘s latest lines from around the Emirates Stadium.
Arsenal goalkeeper Karl Hein has agreed a contract extension just days before his deal was due to expire. The Estonia international has played just once for the Gunners’ first-team but has been convinced to stick around.
“I’m delighted to extend my contract and continue my journey in this amazing club after six years,” the 22-year-old said. “Hopefully, there will be even more good memories and successes for the club.”
Mikel Arteta praised the keeper’s attitude and commitment to getting better. “We value being part of his continued development and I want to congratulate him on earning a new deal with the club,” the manager added.
Serhou Guirassy could end up making a cut-price move to North London this summer, with Sky Sport Deutschland (via football.london) indicating the Gunners have the green light to move for the Guinean. They might not be the only club in the mix, though, with interest from England, Italy and Germany.
Borussia Dortmund and AC Milan are said to be keen, while Manchester United and West Ham were linked last season. The striker is understood to be available for less than £20m.
Guirassy scored 28 goals in the Bundesliga last season, by far the best campaign of his career. Those goals helped his Stuttgart team seal Champions League qualification, but he could yet move before playing in the competition for Sebastian Hoeness’ team.
Arsenal are one of three Premier League teams linked with Jonathan David, but it’s not just English clubs in the mix. According to Sports Zone (via Get French Football News), Al-Ahli are keen to bring the Canada frontman to the Saudi Pro League.
Chelsea are understood to have already made enquiries over a deal for the £30m-rated frontman. Earlier reports indicated intermediaries had approached Arsenal and Manchester United as well.
David is about to enter the final year of his Lille contract, hence the reduced asking price. He has 84 goals in 183 games for the French club but is expected to move this summer.
