Sport nationArsenal news and transfers live – Onana latest as ‘secret’ Mbappe agreement made, striker search
Catch all the latest Arsenal transfer news on Wednesday, including updates on Amadou Onana, Kylian Mbappe and more
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Everton midfielder Amadou Onana
Amadou Onana could be the long-term replacement for Thomas Partey at Arsenal (Image: Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images)
Arsenal are yet to make any waves in the transfer market after the first week but there’s still plenty that can be done for Mikel Arteta.
Much of the talk around the Gunners’ transfer window this January has been around a striker, but the first player through the door this January could well be in midfield. Everton’s Amadou Onana is a name that isn’t going away, and football.london understands the 22-year-old is being closely monitored this month.
Onana would be a welcome boost in midfield in the absence of Thomas Partey, but what about up front? Ivan Toney could be an option for the club, with the England international set to return from suspension at Brentford this week.
Any move for a striker could well rely on outgoings though, with interest in Eddie Nketiah from Crystal Palace worth watching.
With that said, here’s a look at the latest Arsenal transfer news ahead of another busy day following the Gunners.
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KEY EVENTS
PSG set stance on Mbappe’s future
17:29
06:48TOM CAVILLA
Ramsdale question rasied
Paul Merson has questioned where Aaron Ramsdale would head next if the goalkeeper pushes for a January transfer move.
Ramsdale has been on the bench for the majority of matches this season after losing his place in the team to David Raya. A lack of playing time has fuelled talk of a potential exit for the shot-stopper, who is understood to be eager for regular minutes.
Weighing in on Ramsdale’s future and why there is no simple solution, Merson told Sky Sports:
When you sign these contracts for £100,000, £150,000-a-week, you can’t just go, ‘Oh I’m not in the team. I’m leaving tomorrow morning, I wanna play somewhere else’. It’s a horrible position for goalkeepers.
But where are you going to go? You’re not going to Liverpool, you’re not going to Manchester United. The only one I can see is Chelsea and I don’t see Arsenal selling to Chelsea. So for me, I think he’ll have to fight for his place.”
Aaron Ramsdale during Arsenal’s FA Cup clash against Liverpool (Image: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
06:40TOM CAVILLA
Mbappe “agreement”
In case you missed it, there were some interesting comments made by Paris St-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi on Kylian Mbappe.
Discussing the future of the Frenchman, Al-Khelaifi said: “I have a gentleman agreement with Kylian Mbappé. It’s between Kylian and me so I won’t comment about money or details.
“I have very good relationship with him. But this agreement is between us and it will stay between us.”
Where do you think Mbappe will end up? Let us know in the comments section.
06:28TOM CAVILLA
Good morning, Gunners
Good morning Arsenal fans!
We are back for another day of transfer news. Stay tuned as we bring you the latest on the Gunners throughout the day…
23:06TOM COLEY
That’s all from us tonight
Check back in tomorrow for more transfer news, rumours and opinion!
22:38TOM COLEY
Wenger on Benzema
Arsene Wenger has highlighted why Karim Benzema could be the perfect addition for Arsenal in January – insisting the ex-Real Madrid striker “makes people around him better”.
Benzema, 36, is currently plying his trade in the Saudi Pro League with reigning champions Al-Ittihad but has been linked with a stunning mid-season move to the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal were laid bare in Sunday’s FA Cup defeat to Liverpool.
The Frenchman, who left Real Madrid in the summer of 2023, has been linked with a move back to Europe in recent days with his mega-move to Saudi Arabia said to have turned sour last month after he reportedly failed to show up for training on consecutive days.
Read the full story, here.
Karim Benzema
21:09TOM COLEY
OPINION: Arteta’s youth policy
Mikel Arteta is often at the centre of question marks regarding his management of Arsenal youth players and the opportunities that he gives them. The Gunners played out their final Champions League group stage game against PSV with there being no competitive reward outside of the financial reward with both teams already qualified and their positions in the group unchangeable.
Arteta did not give any debuts to the youth starlets on the bench and even brought on the likes of Gabriel Jesus with minutes to spare instead of Ethan Nwaneri, Lino Sousa and Reuell Walters. After the game, he admitted that he felt it was not the right time.
Read the full story, here.
Mikel Arteta has all the evidence to banish the myth he does not give Arsenal youth a chance. (Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
20:41TOM COLEY
Sutton on Nketiah
“I have to say, I have an opinion on Kai Havertz, if I’m Eddie Nketiah I’m wondering how I’m benched and I don’t have a future at Arsenal if I’m not starting as a central striker.
“He’s desperate, I get that, but what message does that send to Nketiah if Havertz is at number nine, what is Nketiah thinking? If I’m Nketiah I’m thinking I can’t stay at Arsenal any longer, if you play a guy who has been effected and has shackles on, come on, he has no future at Arsenal.”
20:22TOM COLEY
Onana agent in London
It is said that the Belgian’s representatives were meeting with Arsenal today.
The Gunners are interested in signing the 22-year-old this window.
Amadou Onana continues to be linked with a move to Arsenal (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
19:59TOM COLEY
Onana shirt numbers
Arsenal’s January transfer window looks set to be a potential slow burner, with the side yet to make any aggressive, early moves to strengthen the team. That is despite their recent struggles, with Mikel Arteta potentially needing some reinforcements to get a title push over the line.
While questions over their finances may keep them from investing heavily, the window could still bring up some opportunities to sign some players. One of those may be Everton midfielder Amadou Onana as football.london understands that the Gunners have been exploring the chance of landing the Belgian international.
Read more, here.
Amadou Onana continues to be linked with a move to Arsenal (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
19:34JACK FLINTHAM
ANALYSIS – Arteta’s goalscoring comments go under the radar
It is no secret that Arsenal are struggling for goals at the moment.
The defeat to Liverpool spoke volumes about this fact as the Gunners’ wastefulness was evident for all to witness.
However, this is a new phenomenon considering how potent the North London club were last season.
Perhaps it is no surprise then that top of the Arsenal wishlist this January is a forward.
Mikel Arteta during Arsenal’s FA Cup loss against Liverpool (Image: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
19:20TOM COLEY
Wow there’s more on Mbappe!
PSG president Al-Khelaifi says:
“I have a gentleman agreement with Kylian Mbappé. It’s between Kylian and me so I won’t comment about money or details.
“I have very good relationship with him. But this agreement is between us and it will stay between us.”
19:06JACK FLINTHAM
Arsenal ‘target’ Osimhen told he will be heading to Saudi Arabia
One way to solve the goalscoring issue at the Emirates would be to sign a striker of the prowess of Victor Osimhen.
Napoli’s talisman has continued to bang in the goals in Serie A and has eight in 18 across all competitions.
However, according to his Naples teammate’s agent Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the Nigerian forward is destined for the Saudi Pro League.
Mamuka Jugeli told Gazzetta Dello Sport:
Osimhen signed a new contract, but do you really think he will spend his entire career at Napoli? I can already tell you he will go to Saudi Arabia next summer. Napoli have raised his salary, but Khvicha would not accept such a transfer even for €1 billion. He’d rather play for Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona or Manchester City. Kvaratskhelia has different targets and preferences.
Victor Osimhen has been linked with a move to Arsenal and Chelsea (Photo by Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
18:47TOM COLEY
Sutton slams Arteta
“I don’t think he is doing any good for the Arsenal team and I don’t think it’s doing any good for Havertz, Psychologically when he plays as a striker he looks shackled, he looks like the weight of the shirt is too much for him and he dithers and delays. He doesn’t think clearly,” Sutton said.
“I think it affects him when he knows he’s a number nine, going to the game, getting changed, playing in that position I think it effects him. Kai Havertz is a good footballer, but Mikel Arteta playing him as a number nine kills him it destroys him psychologically, he has to play him as an eight and when he does play as an eight he seems to enjoy it more.”
18:30TOM COLEY
Toney offer
Dean Jones says:
“I’d be amazed if they didn’t go to Brentford and ask this question right now, but they haven’t done it. The message is that he’s not going right now, but Toney has given off all the vibes that he wants to join Arsenal over the past six months.
“If an offer landed I can’t believe that he wouldn’t take it, I just can’t believe it,.”
18:11JACK FLINTHAM
Petit overlooks Mbappe in debate over the world’s best player
Despite Mbappe being linked to join Arsenal, the Gunners’ former player Emmanuel Petit believes he is not currently the best player in the world.
He told talkSPORT that in fact Jude Bellingham is the man of the moment:
Yes [Bellingham is the best player in the world], because we are talking about Real Madrid. We’re not talking about Paris Saint-Germain. Paris Saint-Germain is a big club but it doesn’t have the same history as Madrid. When you go to Madrid or Barcelona, those clubs, you know what it means. It’s like going to Manchester United, for example.
Would a switch to the Emirates Stadium make Mbappe the best player in the world? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Jude Bellingham of England and Kylian Mbappe of France
17:56JACK FLINTHAM
Arsenal face fierce Liverpool competition for Mbappe
Sadly for the Gunners, the race to sign Mbappe is not just complicated by PSG’s determination to keep hold of their man.
Today we discovered Liverpool will be pushing hard to make the 25-year-old their permanent replacement for Salah.
The 31-year-old ‘Egyptian King’ has been the source of constant goals for the Merseyside club but his position in Jurgen Klopp’s side is not guaranteed forever.
Ultimately, Arteta will understand how tough competition with Liverpool shall be as they bid to get Mbappe.
PSG still want Kylian Mbappe to stay past this summer (Image: Aurelien Meunier – PSG/PSG via Getty Images)
17:41JACK FLINTHAM
Mbappe’s thoughts on future amid PSG’s stance
There will be no surprises to hear PSG’s president wanting to keep hold of arguably the best player in the world at present.
However, as much as Al Khelaifi may want to dictate Mbappe’s future, this decision will be firmly made by the French captain.
When asked recently about his future, Mbappe insisted he was not decided on which club to join next.
At this stage, commiting his future to Paris seems like the least likely option.
Kylian Mbappé’s contract at PSG expires at the end of the season (Image: Getty Images)
17:29KEY EVENT
PSG set stance on Mbappe’s future
Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al Khelaifi has told RMC Sport he is committed to keeping hold of Mbappe despite him seemingly wanting to leave the French club.
He said:
I want Kylian Mbappé to stay at PSG. He’s the best player in the world and the best club for him is PSG. He’s key for our project.
Kylian Mbappe continues to be linked with a move to Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool (Photo by Ibrahim Ezzat/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
17:12JACK FLINTHAM
Former Arsenal star Thomas Vermaelen hails Mikel Arteta’s impact at the Emirates
In an interview with Arsenal.com, Vermaelen has hailed Arteta’s ability as a manager and has praised the job he has done at the Emirates so far.
He explained:
Mikel was a great player and already a great leader for us in the team. I was saying it from early as well – he was one of those who was destined to become a manager. You could see how he was on the pitch – talking to the players and always involved in how we wanted to play. He was a true leader for us already in that team. You can see he’s doing an amazing job now.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta (Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
16:54TOM COLEY
Luiz praise
Paul Merson is a big fan of the midfielder. He has said:
“I’ve been on about the Aston Villa man for god knows how long, so people know I’ve always been a huge fan of him. Douglas Luiz is an established campaigner.
“When Arsenal wanted to sign him a year ago, but people didn’t really rate him too highly but now, everyone can see what he’s all about as he’s been absolutely ripping it up for Aston Villa this season.
“He can sit as a holding midfielder and mop things up for his team but he also gets in the box and scores goals – as we’ve seen so often this season. He’s quite well-rounded and still very underrated.
“But in the 2023-24 campaign, he has started getting his fair share of recognition. People wouldn’t put him in the same breath as Declan Rice or Rodri, but based on their performances this season, I’d certainly put Luiz up there with the pair.
“With Casemiro and Fabinho past their best in recent seasons, the ex-Manchester City midfielder could also become a key player for Brazil in the years ahead.”
16:35TOM COLEY
Ramsdale verdict
Paul Merson has encouraged Aaron Ramsdale to win back Mikel Arteta’s trust, claiming that a transfer to Chelsea, Liverpool or Manchester United won’t be happening The 25-year-old goalkeeper has been heavily linked with an exit from the Emirates Stadium after losing his place in the starting lineup to David Raya.
Ramsdale, who has two-and-a-half-years remaining on his contract in north London, has featured just five times for the Gunners in the Premier League this season, with one of which coming against Brentford – a fixture where Raya was ineligible to play against his parent club.
Despite his impressive performances when called upon, Ramsdale has struggled to force himself back into Arteta’s side and, while he may be inclined to find a new club this month, Merson has urged him to stay put. Speaking on Sky Sports, as quoted by the Metro, the former Arsenal midfielder claimed that neither Chelsea, Liverpool or Manchester United would be able to sign him.
Read the full story, here.
Aaron Ramsdale verdict given as Arsenal star urged to prove Mikel Arteta wrong. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images) (Image: (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images))
16:13TOM COLEY
Isak links
Arsenal are said to be monitoring Newcastle striker Alexander Isak.
Both Arteta and Edu are reportedly big fans of the forward and he is seen as someone that could join in the summer.
With Newcastle under FFP pressure they may well have to entertain offers for the Swedish attacker.
Arsenal looked at Isak before he moved from Spain 18 months ago and he has even been compared to Thierry Henry by his own boss.
Alexander Isak celebrates scoring Newcastle United’s third against Sunderland from the penalty spot (Image: Getty Images)
15:50JACK FLINTHAM
Mikel Arteta ‘praises’ summer Arsenal signing from Chelsea
According to the Evening Standard, Arsenal boss Arteta is a big fan of his summer signing from Chelsea, Jorginho.
The Italian midfielder arrived for £12m and it is understood Arteta sees him as one of the most intelligent players he has ever worked alongside.
Jorginho has been used sparingly in recent weeks and has not completed a full 90 minutes in the Premier League since the 3-1 victory over Burnley.
Jorginho of Arsenal (Image: Rene Nijhuis/BSR Agency/Getty Images)
14:41LUKE THROWER
Huge injury update
Liverpool could be without defender Trent Alexander-Arnold when they face Arsenal in early February, following a fresh injury problem. The England international is claimed to be missing for a few weeks, which puts him in doubt for the clash next month.
12:54LUKE THROWER
Benzema chance
Arsenal may be able to snap up Karim Benzema a whole 11-years after they were linked with a transfer for the striker. A shift in the dynamics in Saudi Arabia means a deal could be possible in the January window, something that may get the side a forward they need.
Read the full story here.
Karim Benzema has long been linked with a move to Arsenal (Photo by Angel Martinez/Real Madrid via Getty Images)
12:06LUKE THROWER
Toney message
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has ruled out Arsenal sealing a transfer for in-demand Brentford striker Ivan Toney. The Gunners have been linked with a switch for the England international over the next month, with the need to add a forward to their ranks.
Read the full story here.
Brentford striker Ivan Toney (Image: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
11:19LUKE THROWER
Haaland release clause
Arsenal could be handed a huge boost in the Premier League title race if Real Madrid make a move for Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. The future of the forward could be intertwined with that of Kylian Mbappe, with a new release clause giving some clarity on his availability.
Read the full story here.
Arsenal have been given an Erling Haaland transfer update (Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images)
10:25LUKE THROWER
Done deal
Manchester United are closing in on a deal to sign Queen’s Park goalkeeper Callan McKenna, according to the Daily Record, having fended off reported interest from Arsenal. The 17-year-old is claimed to be joining the Red Devils for a “six-figure fee”.
Liverpool have decided they will push to make Kylian Mbappe their replacement to Mohamed Salah in the summer transfer window, according to recent reports. It comes as Arsenal, Chelsea and Real Madrid are amongst the teams watching on as the Frenchman’s future pans out.
Kylian Mbappe continues to be linked with a move to Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool
Arsenal are among the clubs linked with AS Roma defender Leandro Spinazzola and could be boosted by comments from the Italian’s agent. The 30-year-old defender is in the final six months of his contract at the Stadio Olimpico, after five years in Rome, which has led towards a potential exit on the horizon.
Read the full story here.
AS Roma defender Leandro Spinazzola is linked with a move away from the Serie A.
Arsenal news and transfers live – Onana latest as ‘secret’ Mbappe agreement made, striker search
Catch all the latest Arsenal transfer news on Wednesday, including updates on Amadou Onana, Kylian Mbappe and more
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Everton midfielder Amadou Onana
Amadou Onana could be the long-term replacement for Thomas Partey at Arsenal (Image: Tony McArdle/Everton FC via Getty Images)
Arsenal are yet to make any waves in the transfer market after the first week but there’s still plenty that can be done for Mikel Arteta.
Much of the talk around the Gunners’ transfer window this January has been around a striker, but the first player through the door this January could well be in midfield. Everton’s Amadou Onana is a name that isn’t going away, and football.london understands the 22-year-old is being closely monitored this month.
Onana would be a welcome boost in midfield in the absence of Thomas Partey, but what about up front? Ivan Toney could be an option for the club, with the England international set to return from suspension at Brentford this week.
Any move for a striker could well rely on outgoings though, with interest in Eddie Nketiah from Crystal Palace worth watching.
With that said, here’s a look at the latest Arsenal transfer news ahead of another busy day following the Gunners.
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KEY EVENTS
PSG set stance on Mbappe’s future
17:29
06:48TOM CAVILLA
Ramsdale question rasied
Paul Merson has questioned where Aaron Ramsdale would head next if the goalkeeper pushes for a January transfer move.
Ramsdale has been on the bench for the majority of matches this season after losing his place in the team to David Raya. A lack of playing time has fuelled talk of a potential exit for the shot-stopper, who is understood to be eager for regular minutes.
Weighing in on Ramsdale’s future and why there is no simple solution, Merson told Sky Sports:
When you sign these contracts for £100,000, £150,000-a-week, you can’t just go, ‘Oh I’m not in the team. I’m leaving tomorrow morning, I wanna play somewhere else’. It’s a horrible position for goalkeepers.
But where are you going to go? You’re not going to Liverpool, you’re not going to Manchester United. The only one I can see is Chelsea and I don’t see Arsenal selling to Chelsea. So for me, I think he’ll have to fight for his place.”
Aaron Ramsdale during Arsenal’s FA Cup clash against Liverpool (Image: Shaun Botterill/Getty Images)
06:40TOM CAVILLA
Mbappe “agreement”
In case you missed it, there were some interesting comments made by Paris St-Germain president Nasser Al-Khelaifi on Kylian Mbappe.
Discussing the future of the Frenchman, Al-Khelaifi said: “I have a gentleman agreement with Kylian Mbappé. It’s between Kylian and me so I won’t comment about money or details.
“I have very good relationship with him. But this agreement is between us and it will stay between us.”
Where do you think Mbappe will end up? Let us know in the comments section.
06:28TOM CAVILLA
Good morning, Gunners
Good morning Arsenal fans!
We are back for another day of transfer news. Stay tuned as we bring you the latest on the Gunners throughout the day…
23:06TOM COLEY
That’s all from us tonight
Check back in tomorrow for more transfer news, rumours and opinion!
22:38TOM COLEY
Wenger on Benzema
Arsene Wenger has highlighted why Karim Benzema could be the perfect addition for Arsenal in January – insisting the ex-Real Madrid striker “makes people around him better”.
Benzema, 36, is currently plying his trade in the Saudi Pro League with reigning champions Al-Ittihad but has been linked with a stunning mid-season move to the Emirates Stadium as Arsenal’s struggles in front of goal were laid bare in Sunday’s FA Cup defeat to Liverpool.
The Frenchman, who left Real Madrid in the summer of 2023, has been linked with a move back to Europe in recent days with his mega-move to Saudi Arabia said to have turned sour last month after he reportedly failed to show up for training on consecutive days.
Read the full story, here.
Karim Benzema
21:09TOM COLEY
OPINION: Arteta’s youth policy
Mikel Arteta is often at the centre of question marks regarding his management of Arsenal youth players and the opportunities that he gives them. The Gunners played out their final Champions League group stage game against PSV with there being no competitive reward outside of the financial reward with both teams already qualified and their positions in the group unchangeable.
Arteta did not give any debuts to the youth starlets on the bench and even brought on the likes of Gabriel Jesus with minutes to spare instead of Ethan Nwaneri, Lino Sousa and Reuell Walters. After the game, he admitted that he felt it was not the right time.
Read the full story, here.
Mikel Arteta has all the evidence to banish the myth he does not give Arsenal youth a chance. (Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
20:41TOM COLEY
Sutton on Nketiah
“I have to say, I have an opinion on Kai Havertz, if I’m Eddie Nketiah I’m wondering how I’m benched and I don’t have a future at Arsenal if I’m not starting as a central striker.
“He’s desperate, I get that, but what message does that send to Nketiah if Havertz is at number nine, what is Nketiah thinking? If I’m Nketiah I’m thinking I can’t stay at Arsenal any longer, if you play a guy who has been effected and has shackles on, come on, he has no future at Arsenal.”
20:22TOM COLEY
Onana agent in London
It is said that the Belgian’s representatives were meeting with Arsenal today.
The Gunners are interested in signing the 22-year-old this window.
Amadou Onana continues to be linked with a move to Arsenal (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
19:59TOM COLEY
Onana shirt numbers
Arsenal’s January transfer window looks set to be a potential slow burner, with the side yet to make any aggressive, early moves to strengthen the team. That is despite their recent struggles, with Mikel Arteta potentially needing some reinforcements to get a title push over the line.
While questions over their finances may keep them from investing heavily, the window could still bring up some opportunities to sign some players. One of those may be Everton midfielder Amadou Onana as football.london understands that the Gunners have been exploring the chance of landing the Belgian international.
Read more, here.
Amadou Onana continues to be linked with a move to Arsenal (Photo by Sebastian Frej/MB Media/Getty Images)
19:34JACK FLINTHAM
ANALYSIS – Arteta’s goalscoring comments go under the radar
It is no secret that Arsenal are struggling for goals at the moment.
The defeat to Liverpool spoke volumes about this fact as the Gunners’ wastefulness was evident for all to witness.
However, this is a new phenomenon considering how potent the North London club were last season.
Perhaps it is no surprise then that top of the Arsenal wishlist this January is a forward.
Mikel Arteta during Arsenal’s FA Cup loss against Liverpool (Image: Andrew Powell/Liverpool FC via Getty Images)
19:20TOM COLEY
Wow there’s more on Mbappe!
PSG president Al-Khelaifi says:
“I have a gentleman agreement with Kylian Mbappé. It’s between Kylian and me so I won’t comment about money or details.
“I have very good relationship with him. But this agreement is between us and it will stay between us.”
19:06JACK FLINTHAM
Arsenal ‘target’ Osimhen told he will be heading to Saudi Arabia
One way to solve the goalscoring issue at the Emirates would be to sign a striker of the prowess of Victor Osimhen.
Napoli’s talisman has continued to bang in the goals in Serie A and has eight in 18 across all competitions.
However, according to his Naples teammate’s agent Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, the Nigerian forward is destined for the Saudi Pro League.
Mamuka Jugeli told Gazzetta Dello Sport:
Osimhen signed a new contract, but do you really think he will spend his entire career at Napoli? I can already tell you he will go to Saudi Arabia next summer. Napoli have raised his salary, but Khvicha would not accept such a transfer even for €1 billion. He’d rather play for Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Barcelona or Manchester City. Kvaratskhelia has different targets and preferences.
Victor Osimhen has been linked with a move to Arsenal and Chelsea (Photo by Giuseppe Maffia/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
18:47TOM COLEY
Sutton slams Arteta
“I don’t think he is doing any good for the Arsenal team and I don’t think it’s doing any good for Havertz, Psychologically when he plays as a striker he looks shackled, he looks like the weight of the shirt is too much for him and he dithers and delays. He doesn’t think clearly,” Sutton said.
“I think it affects him when he knows he’s a number nine, going to the game, getting changed, playing in that position I think it effects him. Kai Havertz is a good footballer, but Mikel Arteta playing him as a number nine kills him it destroys him psychologically, he has to play him as an eight and when he does play as an eight he seems to enjoy it more.”
18:30TOM COLEY
Toney offer
Dean Jones says:
“I’d be amazed if they didn’t go to Brentford and ask this question right now, but they haven’t done it. The message is that he’s not going right now, but Toney has given off all the vibes that he wants to join Arsenal over the past six months.
“If an offer landed I can’t believe that he wouldn’t take it, I just can’t believe it,.”
18:11JACK FLINTHAM
Petit overlooks Mbappe in debate over the world’s best player
Despite Mbappe being linked to join Arsenal, the Gunners’ former player Emmanuel Petit believes he is not currently the best player in the world.
He told talkSPORT that in fact Jude Bellingham is the man of the moment:
Yes [Bellingham is the best player in the world], because we are talking about Real Madrid. We’re not talking about Paris Saint-Germain. Paris Saint-Germain is a big club but it doesn’t have the same history as Madrid. When you go to Madrid or Barcelona, those clubs, you know what it means. It’s like going to Manchester United, for example.
Would a switch to the Emirates Stadium make Mbappe the best player in the world? Let us know your thoughts in the comments.
Jude Bellingham of England and Kylian Mbappe of France
17:56JACK FLINTHAM
Arsenal face fierce Liverpool competition for Mbappe
Sadly for the Gunners, the race to sign Mbappe is not just complicated by PSG’s determination to keep hold of their man.
Today we discovered Liverpool will be pushing hard to make the 25-year-old their permanent replacement for Salah.
The 31-year-old ‘Egyptian King’ has been the source of constant goals for the Merseyside club but his position in Jurgen Klopp’s side is not guaranteed forever.
Ultimately, Arteta will understand how tough competition with Liverpool shall be as they bid to get Mbappe.
PSG still want Kylian Mbappe to stay past this summer (Image: Aurelien Meunier – PSG/PSG via Getty Images)
17:41JACK FLINTHAM
Mbappe’s thoughts on future amid PSG’s stance
There will be no surprises to hear PSG’s president wanting to keep hold of arguably the best player in the world at present.
However, as much as Al Khelaifi may want to dictate Mbappe’s future, this decision will be firmly made by the French captain.
When asked recently about his future, Mbappe insisted he was not decided on which club to join next.
At this stage, commiting his future to Paris seems like the least likely option.
Kylian Mbappé’s contract at PSG expires at the end of the season (Image: Getty Images)
17:29KEY EVENT
PSG set stance on Mbappe’s future
Paris Saint-Germain president Nasser Al Khelaifi has told RMC Sport he is committed to keeping hold of Mbappe despite him seemingly wanting to leave the French club.
He said:
I want Kylian Mbappé to stay at PSG. He’s the best player in the world and the best club for him is PSG. He’s key for our project.
Kylian Mbappe continues to be linked with a move to Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool (Photo by Ibrahim Ezzat/NurPhoto via Getty Images)
17:12JACK FLINTHAM
Former Arsenal star Thomas Vermaelen hails Mikel Arteta’s impact at the Emirates
In an interview with Arsenal.com, Vermaelen has hailed Arteta’s ability as a manager and has praised the job he has done at the Emirates so far.
He explained:
Mikel was a great player and already a great leader for us in the team. I was saying it from early as well – he was one of those who was destined to become a manager. You could see how he was on the pitch – talking to the players and always involved in how we wanted to play. He was a true leader for us already in that team. You can see he’s doing an amazing job now.
Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta (Image: Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)
16:54TOM COLEY
Luiz praise
Paul Merson is a big fan of the midfielder. He has said:
“I’ve been on about the Aston Villa man for god knows how long, so people know I’ve always been a huge fan of him. Douglas Luiz is an established campaigner.
“When Arsenal wanted to sign him a year ago, but people didn’t really rate him too highly but now, everyone can see what he’s all about as he’s been absolutely ripping it up for Aston Villa this season.
“He can sit as a holding midfielder and mop things up for his team but he also gets in the box and scores goals – as we’ve seen so often this season. He’s quite well-rounded and still very underrated.
“But in the 2023-24 campaign, he has started getting his fair share of recognition. People wouldn’t put him in the same breath as Declan Rice or Rodri, but based on their performances this season, I’d certainly put Luiz up there with the pair.
“With Casemiro and Fabinho past their best in recent seasons, the ex-Manchester City midfielder could also become a key player for Brazil in the years ahead.”
16:35TOM COLEY
Ramsdale verdict
Paul Merson has encouraged Aaron Ramsdale to win back Mikel Arteta’s trust, claiming that a transfer to Chelsea, Liverpool or Manchester United won’t be happening The 25-year-old goalkeeper has been heavily linked with an exit from the Emirates Stadium after losing his place in the starting lineup to David Raya.
Ramsdale, who has two-and-a-half-years remaining on his contract in north London, has featured just five times for the Gunners in the Premier League this season, with one of which coming against Brentford – a fixture where Raya was ineligible to play against his parent club.
Despite his impressive performances when called upon, Ramsdale has struggled to force himself back into Arteta’s side and, while he may be inclined to find a new club this month, Merson has urged him to stay put. Speaking on Sky Sports, as quoted by the Metro, the former Arsenal midfielder claimed that neither Chelsea, Liverpool or Manchester United would be able to sign him.
Read the full story, here.
Aaron Ramsdale verdict given as Arsenal star urged to prove Mikel Arteta wrong. (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images) (Image: (Photo by Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images))
16:13TOM COLEY
Isak links
Arsenal are said to be monitoring Newcastle striker Alexander Isak.
Both Arteta and Edu are reportedly big fans of the forward and he is seen as someone that could join in the summer.
With Newcastle under FFP pressure they may well have to entertain offers for the Swedish attacker.
Arsenal looked at Isak before he moved from Spain 18 months ago and he has even been compared to Thierry Henry by his own boss.
Alexander Isak celebrates scoring Newcastle United’s third against Sunderland from the penalty spot (Image: Getty Images)
15:50JACK FLINTHAM
Mikel Arteta ‘praises’ summer Arsenal signing from Chelsea
According to the Evening Standard, Arsenal boss Arteta is a big fan of his summer signing from Chelsea, Jorginho.
The Italian midfielder arrived for £12m and it is understood Arteta sees him as one of the most intelligent players he has ever worked alongside.
Jorginho has been used sparingly in recent weeks and has not completed a full 90 minutes in the Premier League since the 3-1 victory over Burnley.
Jorginho of Arsenal (Image: Rene Nijhuis/BSR Agency/Getty Images)
14:41LUKE THROWER
Huge injury update
Liverpool could be without defender Trent Alexander-Arnold when they face Arsenal in early February, following a fresh injury problem. The England international is claimed to be missing for a few weeks, which puts him in doubt for the clash next month.
12:54LUKE THROWER
Benzema chance
Arsenal may be able to snap up Karim Benzema a whole 11-years after they were linked with a transfer for the striker. A shift in the dynamics in Saudi Arabia means a deal could be possible in the January window, something that may get the side a forward they need.
Read the full story here.
Karim Benzema has long been linked with a move to Arsenal (Photo by Angel Martinez/Real Madrid via Getty Images)
12:06LUKE THROWER
Toney message
Former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand has ruled out Arsenal sealing a transfer for in-demand Brentford striker Ivan Toney. The Gunners have been linked with a switch for the England international over the next month, with the need to add a forward to their ranks.
Read the full story here.
Brentford striker Ivan Toney (Image: Mike Hewitt/Getty Images)
11:19LUKE THROWER
Haaland release clause
Arsenal could be handed a huge boost in the Premier League title race if Real Madrid make a move for Manchester City striker Erling Haaland. The future of the forward could be intertwined with that of Kylian Mbappe, with a new release clause giving some clarity on his availability.
Read the full story here.
Arsenal have been given an Erling Haaland transfer update (Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images)
10:25LUKE THROWER
Done deal
Manchester United are closing in on a deal to sign Queen’s Park goalkeeper Callan McKenna, according to the Daily Record, having fended off reported interest from Arsenal. The 17-year-old is claimed to be joining the Red Devils for a “six-figure fee”.
Liverpool have decided they will push to make Kylian Mbappe their replacement to Mohamed Salah in the summer transfer window, according to recent reports. It comes as Arsenal, Chelsea and Real Madrid are amongst the teams watching on as the Frenchman’s future pans out.
Kylian Mbappe continues to be linked with a move to Arsenal, Chelsea and Liverpool
Arsenal are among the clubs linked with AS Roma defender Leandro Spinazzola and could be boosted by comments from the Italian’s agent. The 30-year-old defender is in the final six months of his contract at the Stadio Olimpico, after five years in Rome, which has led towards a potential exit on the horizon.
Read the full story here.
AS Roma defender Leandro Spinazzola is linked with a move away from the Serie A.
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