Journalist Dean Jones has discussed a rumour indicating that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta has personally engaged in transfer discussions with an £80 million player.
This is part of Arsenal’s broader strategy to strengthen their squad in several key areas during the summer transfer window. Sporting director Edu has highlighted that reinforcing the team’s forward line is one of four crucial objectives.
Alongside acquiring a new forward, Arsenal aims to bring in a goalkeeper, a midfielder, and a defender, with significant player departures anticipated when the transfer window opens on June 14.
Edu mentioned that the club’s transfer planning has been ongoing since January, following their substantial expenditure of over £200 million last summer. He emphasized that the club’s transfer process is thorough and deliberate, involving extensive player assessments. “You can’t sign for the sake of signing,” Edu stated in an interview with Brazilian newspaper Estadao, as reported by Standard Sport.
He described the meticulous nature of their scouting reports, which encompass over 180 pages per player, detailing physical, technical, and mental attributes, Premier League experience, and adaptability. The decision-making process, according to Edu, is a collective effort that has been in discussion for months.
Despite Arsenal’s impressive attacking record last season, scoring over 90 goals and being one of the top offensive teams behind Manchester City, there is still a push to enhance their strike force.
This includes potential additions like a new striker and winger. Among the rumored targets for the winger position are Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise and Manchester United’s Marcus Rashford.
Addressing the speculation around Rashford, Jones conveyed that Arteta has reportedly had talks with Rashford regarding a possible move to Arsenal. While Jones acknowledges the unlikelihood of this transfer, he believes the rumour has some credibility.
He explains that Rashford’s deep ties to Manchester United make a move difficult, but the rumour is noteworthy enough to be taken seriously. Jones notes that a well-known Arsenal insider hinted at these discussions, suggesting there might be some basis to the claim.
However, he also points out the practical challenges, such as Rashford’s high weekly wage of around £350,000 and his £80 million valuation, making it improbable for Arsenal to meet all the necessary conditions for the transfer.
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