Hello and welcome to football.london's coverage of Arsenal transfer news on Friday, April 25.
The Gunners' draw to Crystal Palace in midweek has opened the door for Liverpool to be crowned champions on Sunday which should turn all focus firmly to the Champions League. Arsenal know that defeating PSG over two legs is not a given but should they reach the final and win it, they will put themselves in a strong position to entice players to the Emirates Stadium.
Mikel Arteta's side will be looking at all areas to strengthen but the most interesting link at present is AFC Bournemouth centre-back Dean Huijsen. At 20 years old, the centre-back has flourished in his debut Premier League season and Arsenal reportedly want to add him to their already impressive back line.
This could mean that a player like Jakub Kiwior, who has stepped in while Gabriel Magalhaes has been injured, could be sold but there is an update on his future too. Elsewhere, a striker will be seen by many as the priority and one player who has been linked in the past is Napoli's Victor Osimhen.
Follow all the latest Arsenal transfer updates in our blog below...
That's all for today!
Thanks for following our Arsenal live blog coverage this week with huge news on Dean Huijsen, Victor Osimhen, Gyokeres and Matheus Cunha covered...
We will be back next week to deliver more of the latest updates and rumours.
See you then!
Viktor Gyokeres reveals true Sporting CP feelings as Arsenal learn huge striker transfer update
Arsenal are expected to be in the market for a striker in this summer's transfer window. Mikel Arteta and Andrea Berta have some big decisions to make ahead of the 2025/26 season with numerous signings and exits likely to be sanctioned.
Since returning to the starting XI back in mid-February after suffering from injury, he has contributed to 19 goals in 12 games. Two of those arrived in the Taco de Portugal triumph over Rio Ave this past Tuesday with Sporting sealing a spot in the final against Benfica as a result. In the immediate aftermath of the victory, Gyokeres sent a clear message on social media.
Three days on, he has again been active on Instagram with a blitz of stories posted that seemingly shows his true Sporting colours. Alongside pictures of him celebrating and a repost of Sporting confirming he was player of the match, he also shared a photo of him in conversation with a member of the club's backroom staff.
Despite it only being his second season in Lisbon, it is quite clear he is loving life there and gets on well with everyone at the club. With that in mind, there is no guarantee he would want to leave, or at the very least he will ensure Sporting receive a substantial fee for his departure.
Newcastle United move for Liam Delap sets up Arsenal transfer dream
Arsenal could be handed a potential boost in their hopes of signing Alexander Isak this summer, with Newcastle united making a move for Ipswich Town striker Liam Delap.
Isak has been a long term target for the Gunners as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his striking options over the off-season. Injuries to both Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz means that Arsenal have been without a recognised centre-forward with both Mikel Merino and Leandro Trossard playing the role.
Newcastle are however determined to keep hold of their star striker. But they could possibly soften their stance if Eddie Howe has options up front that will negate his exit. One of those could be Delap, with the Telegraph reporting that the Magpies are keen on a summer move for the England U21 international.
Partey contract 'curveball' revealed
News emerged this week that Arsenal could be set to offer midfielder Thomas Partey a new contract, with the 31-year-old set to become a free agent this summer.
However, a fresh update from ESPN claims a new deal will be possible on one condition - a pay cut. The Gunners are understood to be confident of securing a deal for Real Sociedad's Martin Zubimendi, which would likely demote Partey to a squad role if he is to stay.
It is for that reason Arsenal would hope to lower his salary due to what would be a new role in the team. It is also worth noting Barcelona are among the clubs interested in signing Partey should he become a free agent in the coming months.
Why Leroy Sane 'rejected' Arsenal
Arsenal were reportedly one of a number of clubs interested in signing Leroy Sane on a free transfer this summer.
However, the former Manchester City man is now closing in on a three-year extension with Bayern Munich in a decision that has been driven by his teammates.
According to journalist Christian Falk, the 29-year-old attacker has agreed to a salary reduction in order to remain in Bavaria until 2028.
The article goes on to say that the player's friendship with teammate Jamal Musiala was one of the driving forces behind his decision to stay, despite having other propositions on the table.
Both Musiala and Harry Kane reportedly pushed Bayern bosses to hand Sane a new deal.
Interest in Gabriel 'intensifies'
Arsenal have work to do to keep a hold of defender Gabriel, if reports this week are anything to go by.
The 27-year-old is currently sidelined due to injury but he is still a vital figure for Mikel Arteta, alongside his centre back partner William Saliba.
However, according to UOL, clubs in Saudi Arabia and an unnamed club in Europe are keen on signing the Brazilian.
Gabriel is under contract until 2027, but the report goes on to add that Arsenal are eager to tie their star defender down to a new deal in a bid to fend off any interest.
Everything spotted in PSG training
Football.london have taken a look at what took place during PSG's latest training session after a lengthy video was uploaded to club channels, writes Kieran Horn.
- Hakimi and Mendes fume
- Vitinha snub
- Cautious rondo
Read the full story ahead of next week's Champions League clash with Arsenal here.
Juventus 'consider' Vlahovic transfer stance
Serie A giants Juventus could consider parting ways with star striker Dusan Vlahovic this summer, according to reports in Italy.
The 25-year-old joined Juve from Fiorentina for a hefty €70m fee in January 2022, but he is yet to truly hit the ground running for his current club.
Now, a report from Corriere dello Sport suggests Juve face a singificant decision on the forward's future this summer as he is about to enter the final year of his deal, which expires in 2026.
If they do not offer him a new contract, selling him would be the only way to recoup some of the fee they paid for him over three years ago.
The article goes on to add that Vlahovic would only consider a move to a top European team, with Arsenal and Bayern Munich rumoured to be his ideal destination.
Arsenal handed Nuno Tavares 'boost'
Arsenal could be in line for a cash boost this summer as Lazio have reportedly made a decision on the future of left back Nuno Tavares.
The defender signed for the Gunners from Benfica in 2021 but has spent the last three seasons out on loan. Last summer, he joined Serie A side Lazio for the 2024/25 campaign with an obligation to buy for €5m.
According to outlet Il Messaggero, the Italian club are happy to sign him permanently as it's considered a bargain fee, but. they are looking to cash in on the 25-year-old in the upcoming transfer window.
The report adds that Lazio will seek a fee in the region of €40 million if they do sell, with potential suitors including Juventus, Inter Milan, AC Milan and Chelsea. Arsenal will reportedly receive a 40% sell-on fee, which would he a healthy financial boost for the Gunners.
Latest injury and suspension news
It's been a difficult season for Arsenal on the injury front and things haven't eased up with a huge Champions League semi-final against Paris Saint-Germain on the horizon.
Here, football.london's Tom Coley brings you the latest on Mikel Merino, Thomas Partey, Jorginho and more ahead of what will be a decisive week in the context of Arsenal's entire season.
United join race for Arsenal target
According to Cope, Manchester United are showing interest in Espanyol goalkeeper Joan Garcia.
Garcia was targeted by the Gunners last summer to be the long-term replacement for David Raya at the Emirates Stadium.
However, their bid was rejected and it appears Amorim's side are now stepping up their interest.
Garcia may see more immediate first-team opportunities at Old Trafford considering the form of Andre Onana in recent weeks.
Arsenal could reignite Doue interest
According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal regret missing out on PSG wonderkid Desire Doue last summer.
The 19-year-old has bagged 13 goals and 12 assists in 46 appearances for the Parisians and such form has shortlisted him as a target for a number of Premier League clubs - including Manchester City.
However, his £85m price tag could deter the Gunners from trying to sign him.
Arsenal to 'reconsider' former target
In what would be a massive shock this summer, Football Insider reports that Arsenal would reconsider a move for Aston Villa striker Ollie Watkins at the end of the season.
In January, the Gunners made a speculative bid for the striker after it became clear that Villa needed to sell either him or Jhon Duran.
Eventually that bid was rejected and Duran would move to Al Nassr, negating the need to sell Watkins.
However, Watkins has expressed his frustration regarding a lack of minutes recently following the arrival of Marcus Rashford and the Gunners are reportedly willing to test the waters again for the boyhood Gunner.
Could Gyokeres be the one for Arsenal?
Viktor Gyokeres has been on Arsenal's radar since last summer and not signing him then appears to have been a misstep from the boardroom.
Now there is plenty of interest in the striker including from Real Madrid who Defensa Central claim have turned the Swede's head.
It is claimed Real have already met with Gyokeres' representatives over a transfer this summer and this meeting was at the 'request' of the player himself.
When Arsenal almost signed Sesko...
football.london understands that Arsenal were interested in signing Benjamin Sesko last summer, but talks never reached an advanced stage. The 21-year-old striker wanted to resolve his future before Euro 2024, but the Gunners couldn't commit to a deal with Eddie Nketiah still at the club.
The Hale End graduate eventually left, by which time Sesko had penned a contract extension at the Red Bull Arena. Despite missing out, football.london understands that the north Londoners have continued to monitor his progress – and they remain keen on securing his signature.
Osimhen transfer update
According to Tuttosport this week, Manchester United have a basic agreement in place for Victor Osimhen to activate his £64m release clause.
The Nigerian has been linked with a move to Arsenal but The Athletic understand that any move to the Premier League should be considered unlikely.
They claim that while the release clause is not in of itself an issue, his high wage demands offer a problem for the Gunners and others in the English top flight.
Kiwior U-turn
The Athletic's David Ornstein would go on to add that Jakub Kiwior looks more likely to stay now than at any point in the season so far.
The Polish defender has stepped up in the absence of Gabriel Magalhaes and will be vital if the Gunners are to win the Champions League.
Kiwior still has three years remaining on his contract at the Emirates Stadium so the Gunners may not choose to part ways with him just yet.
Iraola provides Huijsen update
Speaking to reporters a few days later, Andoni Iraola downplayed any concerns over Huijsen's focus. The Bournemouth boss said: "My only concern with Dean is he keeps his focus here. I see he trains very well.
"He’s very focused on improving individually, improving us as a team collectively. He knows we have seven very important games ahead of us and I see him in a really good place. No, I don’t think the noise around is affecting him and I see him in a good place."
Iraola added: "I try not to start thinking in the problems of the summer now. I have enough problems now and I have seven important games to play and we are fighting for important things. I’m not thinking in these things."
Huijsen confirms release clause
Earlier this month, Dean Huijsen confirmed there's a release clause in his contract at Bournemouth. Speaking to Spanish outlet El Chiringuito TV, as quoted by ESPN, he said: "I have a contract until 2030, [but] I do have a [release] clause.
"I don't know (if I’ll join Real Madrid), we'll see. It's a big team. Every player wants to play in the maximum [level] possible. A friend called me and said, 'Go to Real Madrid'. I laughed. What am I going to say?"
Latest on Huijsen interest
Speaking in a Q&A on Thursday, The Athletic's David Ornstein explained that Arsenal remain firmly in the race to sign Bournemouth's Dean Huijsen this summer.
The Gunners, along with Chelsea, Liverpool, Newcastle and Tottenham, have met with his representatives and Arteta and Berta are keen to sign the 20-year-old.
There is thought to be no frontrunner at present for Huijsen but the defender is thought to be interested by Real Madrid albeit the Spanish giants have not made an approach as of yet.
Good morning
Hello and welcome back to the Arsenal transfer blog this Friday morning.
My name is Jack Flintham and I shall be taking you through the latest Gunners news in the early stages of today.
To kick things off, let's bring you up to speed on what has been happening at the Emirates Stadium.
- Partey future in the balance
- Four reasons why Premier League form will not influence PSG clash
- Arsenal given Zubimendi 'guarantee'
Good evening!
Aaaaaaaaaand, that's all we have time for today, I'm afraid. Thank you for joining us at the football.london – I hope you enjoyed your stay. Here's a roundup of today's big stories:
- Merson tips Leeds to sign forgotten Chelsea star ahead of Arsenal in shock transfer
Enrique makes Arsenal feelings clear with honest PSG verdict - 'I already know'
Arsenal set for summer transfer despite Partey contract decision and Arteta boost
Have a great evening. See you again tomorrow for more Arsenal news and transfer gossip...
Should Arsenal sign Watkins?
Arsenal submitted a £40m bid for Ollie Watkins towards the end of the January transfer window, football.london understands. Unsurprisingly, Aston Villa rejected the offer, demanding £60m for his signature.
It's understood that Watkins was keen on the idea of a move to the Emirates Stadium and, had the two Premier League clubs agreed on a fee, he would've made the switch. Unfortunately for Mikel Arteta, who was eager to strengthen his frontline, the north Londoners fell short.
Meanwhile, Unai Emery wrapped up a deal for Marcus Rashford, signing the 27-year-old forward on loan from Manchester United...
More on Huijsen to Arsenal...
In a column for The Athletic, David Ornstein has provided an update on Dean Huijsen and his future at Bournemouth. The 20-year-old defender has been heavily linked with a move to Chelsea, but Arsenal could upset the apple cart.
On the Gunners' interest in Huijsen, Ornstein said: "It is strong & they remain in contention. They are among the clubs who have met his representatives, with Mikel Arteta amd Andrea Berta keen to sign him.
"Whether or not Arsenal win the race is unclear because it’s still open and I’m not aware of a front runner between them, Chelsea and Liverpool to date."
Ornstein added: "Previously, I think Kiwior exiting Arsenal was highly possible — that might be less certain following his rise to prominence. Either way, Huijsen would play a lot of football at Arsenal.
"Now, this doesn’t mean he will opt for them. There are pros & cons to each of the suitors, all of whom are ready to pay the release clause. Huijsen and Bournemouth want it sorted sooner rather than later."
Dean Huijsen twist
Arsenal, along with Liverpool and Chelsea all remain in the race to sign Dean Huijsen from Bournemouth in the transfer window, according to Fabrizio Romano.
The defender has a £50m rlease clause in his contract. Chelsea have been named favourites to sign the defender in recent days, but a decision is yet to be made.
Transfer suggestion would be a blow to Arsenal
Ian Wright has suggested that Manchester United and Aston Villa could potentially do a swap deal involving Marcus Rashford and Ollie Watkins in the summer. Watkins was of course a January target for Arsenal.
Speaking on Wrighty's House podcast, he said:
"The mere fact is that the word was that they offered him to Arsenal, and then the Jhon Duran thing happened, but if they wanted him, maybe that could be a good swap with Ollie Watkins to United, they need a striker, I’m just saying to do the Rashford deal, that won’t be easy due to the amount of money he’s on."
Refree review
Arsenal were disappointing again in their 2-2 draw with Crystal Palace, which saw the Gunners record their 13th draw of the campaign; only Everton (14) have more than Mikel Arteta’s side. Asked after the match for his response to the questions and it was evident the frustration in losing so many points from leading positions.
Many times, a single goal lead has not been enough for Arsenal to claim the three points, and they have failed to open up the two-goal buffer. Yet they were denied the chance to see a two-goal gap emerge after Gabriel Martinelli’s goal was ruled out.
At the time it was not clear whether an offside call had been made or something else, the screens inside the grounds mentioned checking for an offside. In the end, it was deemed that the ball had indeed gone out of play before Jurrien Timber managed to find a cross.
'Advanced' Zubimendi talks
The last few days have seen reports that Arsenal could be closing in on the signing of Martin Zubimendi from Real Sociedad.
ESPN have now backed that up. The report claims that negotiations are at an 'advanced stage'
However it is added that Real Madrid could increase their interest should Xabi Alonso replace Carlo Ancelotti as head coach.
Paul Merson's PSG prediction
Paul Merson has backed his former club to come out on top in their Champions League semi-final against PAris Saint-Germain and book their place in the final of the competition.
Speaking on Sky Sports he said:
“Yeah, I think Arsenal win over two legs. I think Arsenal win, I think we still get carried away with the PSG of the first leg against Liverpool, I thought they were outstanding, one of the best team performances we’ve seen this season from anyone. But they lost the game, they lost that game 1-0, people still forget that.
“They are outstanding. But they were hanging on, absolutely hanging on at Anfield, then they go and play Villa and they absolutely dominated Villa, scored last kick of the game which worked out to be a priceless goal in the end to go 3-1 up and then they want to Villa Park and at times in that game, it got to stages where you’re thinking there’s only one winner here and that’s Aston Villa.
“I think Arsenal have every chance, I’d just go slightly go with Arsenal over PSG over legs, I think Arsenal are very disciplined and I think Arsenal win this.”
Benjamin Sesko boost
Arsenal could have been handed a boost in their pursuit of Benjamin Sesko this summer, with RB Leipzig needing to generate money in the summer transfer window.
According to Bild the club must generate a revenue of at least €100 million (£85.5m) in the summer window, and this could be achieved with the sales of both Xavi Simons and Sesko.
Arsenal have been long-term admireres of the stiker and are keen to add to their attacking options this window.
