The summer transfer window is starting to take shape, with under one month now until it opens for Premier League clubs and those around Europe.
For Arsenal, it’s a chance to address some much-needed changes to the squad, with Mikel Arteta looking to take the team to that next level.
With Andrea Berta now at the helm as the sporting director, there is pressure on him to add some goals to a team that has found them hard to come by.
Arsenal Insider understands that a striker and a winger are on the cards as a priority, while at least one midfielder and a backup goalkeeper are expected to make the switch to the Emirates Stadium.
With pressure mounting over a big summer, there are also questions surrounding whether Arsenal should add another playmaker to their ranks.
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Arsenal transfer target Florian Wirtz travels for talks with Manchester City
Arsenal have been linked with a transfer for Florian Wirtz, the Bayer Leverkusen and Germany star who has impressed over recent seasons.
The 22-year-old has been a regular in the Bundesliga since the 2019/20 season, and even though a serious knee injury has halted his playing time in the past, it seems to have done little damage in terms of impacting his ability.
Wirtz has already won a league title and the domestic cup at Bayer Leverkusen, with over 100 goal involvements to show for his impressive early career.
While Arsenal have shown interest in Wirtz, Sky Sports reports that Manchester City are looking to steal a march in the race to sign him.
The report claims that the German international has already travelled to England in midweek with his family, with negotiations ongoing over a possible deal.
It’s claimed that there’s a verbal agreement between Manchester City and Bayer Leverkusen over the structure of a deal, but finer details and the player’s decision have to factor into it too.
Reports from Sky Sports Switzerland add that a deal for foreign clubs to sign Wirtz will be in the region of £84million, while it will cost those in the Bundesliga, namely Bayern Munich, £126million.
While Manchester City are closing in on a deal, Arsenal still have a chance to make a move of their own.
Andrea Berta must act fast to land Florian Wirtz transfer at Arsenal
Arsenal’s lack of goals is a clear problem, and while a scorer is clearly high up on the list, a creator should be too.
The Gunners have struggled against low blocks and settled defences all season, finding it a challenge to consistently open teams up.
Martin Odegaard has been criticised by Arsenal fans and pundits alike, following a dip in output this season.
With that in mind, bringing in Wirtz could add further competition to a midfield that is set for a rebuild.
| Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|
| 196 | 57 | 65 |
Andrea Berta will have to act fast to land him, however, with clear competition for his signature from Man City.
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