Arsenal transfer news recap – Calafiori deal, Williams update, Neto 'talks' (2024)

Rashford urged to leave United

Speaking to LordPing, William Gallas said: "Marcus Rashford definitely needs to leave Manchester United. It looks like he’s had some issues with the manager and he’s now out of the England squad so I think it’s time for him to refresh his career.

"He has to play for the new club, he needs that new challenge. Could Marcus Rashford join Arsenal or Chelsea? Anything can happen in football. I don't know if Chelsea can give him the opportunity to refresh himself, he has to think things through.

"But looking at his time in the Premier League, he has never scored 20 goals in a season, the best strikers have always done that..."

Gallagher rates Rice pretty highly...

Conor Gallagher has named Declan Rice as 'one of the top five' midfielders in the world. Speaking on talkSPORT, the Chelsea midfielder said: "I would say around the top five.

"I can’t think off the top of my head now but he is definitely up there and the exciting thing is he’s getting better as well. He’s only just moved to a top team like Arsenal and he’s still improved massively from when he was at West Ham.

"So it’s really exciting for everyone England and like I said, he’s a top guy as well. I think he is pretty much a world-class midfielder, he’s been fantastic for Arsenal so far and I’m sure he’s going to keep improving."

Riccardo Calafiori latest

Fabrizio Romano has given the latest update on Arsenal's pursuit of Riccardo Calafiori.

The player is said to be keen on the move, but an agreement is yet to be reached with Bologna over a sale.

The good news for Arsenal is that Chelsea seem to have moved on to other targets.

'He has everything...'

Speaking to Sky Sports News, Heiko Vogel explained why Arsenal must sign Riccardo Calafiori this summer. The former FC Basel boss said: "Absolutely, because he has everything.

"On one hand you have the possession game, and on the other hand I think a full-back and also a centre-back needed to be a good defender. He’s aggressive, he’s good in the defence, in duels, in 1v1 situations, he has a good mentality, good at anticipation.

"Everything you need to be at the highest level, both in possession and opponents’ possession, he has everything. But he still improves. He’s a young guy and now he had Thiago Motta and next season Mikel Arteta I think it’s very good for his career and he’s improving.

"He has everything. He has tactical skills, he has technical skills, he can reach the next level..."

Watkins to Arsenal?!

Speaking to LordPing, William Gallas said: "For Arsenal, I like Aston Villa’s Ollie Watkins. He has the pace you need to have as a striker and with a player like Martin Odegaard in behind him it would just be magnificent, think of all the assists.

"It’s so difficult to defend against players like Ollie Watkins because he’s so clever with his runs, with Odegaard they would do so much damage. If I was at Arsenal I’d choose him."

Arsenal put defender in the shop window

According to CaughtOffside, Arsenal are ready to part ways with Nuno Tavares this summer. The report states that the Gunners have already held talks with 'several European clubs' ahead of a potential move.

It's said that Mikel Arteta has no plans for Tavares and Arsenal are ready to accept offers between €12m (£10.2m) and €14m (£11.9m). CaughtOffside add that Lazio and Ajax are keen to sign the 24-year-old defender, but nothing is close to being concluded.

Arteta offers his two cents

Mikel Arteta has admitted Declan Rice and Bukayo Saka have struggled at Euro 2024. Speaking on American television channel CBS, the Arsenal manager said: "It was an unbelievable moment [the winning goal against Slovakia].

"I was watching it with my boys and my son is a huge fan of Jude Bellingham so he was running and jumping all over the place. So glad for the boys [Rice and Saka] because I know it’s been a tough few weeks for them.

"But they showed the character and the resilience that is needed in tournaments to create a moment that hopefully is going to turn a lot of things around."

Neto swoop

According to TEAMtalk, Arsenal have joined the race to sign Pedro Neto this summer. The 24-year-old winger has been linked with an exit from Wolves on numerous occasions overs the years as he continues to impress in the Premier League.

The report states that Neto has held talks with his agency over a potential move. TEAMtalk claim that Neto has been on the Gunners' radar for a while now as Mikel Arteta looks to bolster his frontline.

It's said that Tottenham Hotspur have also 'shortlisted' the Portugal international and they're leeping tabs on his situation at Molineux...

Calafiori latest...

According to Fabrizio Romano, Arsenal have agreed personal terms with Riccardo Calafiori. The 22-year-old defender continues to be heavily linked with a move to the Premier League following his impressive performances for Italy at Euro 2024.

The report states that the Gunners are currently discussing a fee with Bologna, who still want €50m (£42.3m) for his signature. Romano adds that FC Basel will receive 50 per cent of any sale €4.5m (£3.8m) and they're well aware of the ongoing talks.

It's believed that Calafiori wants to join Arsenal...

Good morning!

Hello and welcome to football.london's dedicated Arsenal blog on Saturday morning! Stay with us as we keep you updated on all the latest news and transfer gossip as Mikel Arteta gears up for a busy summer...

Grealish and Gyokeres greenlights

If Arsenal decide they want to sign Jack Grealish and Viktor Gyokeres, Financial Fair Play will not stop them.

Unlike many teams in the Premier League, Mikel Arteta's side will not have to go about their business looking over their shoulder at FFP. Having come so close to winning the title for the first time since 2004, Arsenal look to be in an excellent position to further bolster their squad.

David Raya, who has now signed for the club permanently, Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice raised the levels at the Emirates Stadium, even if it did not raise the league position. Arteta's squad is in excellent condition. Now it is about applying the finishing touches that will propel them past Manchester City.

Read the rest here.

Arteta's dream 25-man Arsenal squad

One month ago football.london predicted what Mikel Arteta's dream Premier League squad with Arsenal would look like come the end of the transfer window. It came four days before the actual summer window itself had even opened.

We are now three weeks into official business and so far things are yet to really take shape for Arsenal. David Raya is the only permanent signing to arrive, and even that had been expected for the past seven months, if not more.

There is still a demand for a new striker and midfielder, whilst the host of changes to the supporting cast of rotation options and squad players is yet to get underway. No significant sales have happened, and in fact two of the more promising academy youngsters have left for nothing.

Here's what Mikel Arteta's dream squad may look like...

Cooper signs

Former Arsenal youth goalkeeper Noah Cooper has signed his first professional contract with Stoke City after being released by the Gunners at the end of last season.

The 18-year-old was trialled by Newcastle United but has landed a role in the Championship.

City rival Arsenal

Manchester City are reportedly considering signing Andriy Lunin as the Real Madrid goalkeeper is said to be on their shortlist.

Bernabeu Digital claims that the club have not forgotten his performance against them in the Champions League quarter-finals. Arsenal have previously been linked with the Ukraine international.

Reports in Spain have previously credited the Gunners with an interest in the player. Lunin is reportedly someone Madrid are willing to sell this summer.

Calafiori transfer called out

Former Fiorentina player-turned-coach Massimo Orlando has called Riccardo Calafiori choosing Arsenal over Juventus "strange".

The one-time Juventus midfielder suggested signing for the Turin club would be better than going to Arsenal. Orlando believes Arsenal took advantage of the financial edge they have over the Italian giants.

These comments came on TMW Radio show Maracana (translated by Sport Witness):

Arsenal certainly do the business, for the game they have fits Calafiori perfectly. In modern football €4m (£3.4m) per year, costing over €55m (£46.5m) (in transfer fees), is not much. It was a salary that even an Italian could afford. Strange to take this figure, at this point it is better to go to Juve, who could afford it like this.

However, certain experiences abroad are good, especially in the Premier League. It is a fascinating but difficult championship, now we will see how he will adapt the Italian championship is more complicated tactically, but the English one has a double pace and it’s a problem.

I would have chosen Juve because I would have continued to learn from the coach who got me to this level. Then in a few years maybe he goes to Barcelona or Real Madrid. Juve certainly couldn’t afford it at certain prices and Arsenal took advantage of it immediately.

'Keeper signs

Noah Cooper has signed a professional contract with Stoke City after being released by Arsenal.

Cooper, 18, is said to have had several clubs wanting to sign him this summer but has ultimately agreed terms with the Championship club following a successful trial. The goalkeeper also went on trial with Newcastle United last season, but he will now join Stoke's under-21s ahead of the upcoming season.

He joined Arsenal as a schoolboy one year after leaving Crystal Palace at 14. Cooper notably featured during the under-18s run to the FA Youth Cup final in 2023.

Fixture changes confirmed

Four of Arsenal's first four matches of the new Premier League season have been moved for TV.

The opening day remains unchanged (Saturday, 17 August at 3pm), but the following weekend Arsenal will now play Aston Villa at 5:30pm on Saturday, 24 August rather than 3pm because of Sky Sports. Brighton & Hove Albion at home also remains on the same day (Saturday, 31 August), but will kick-off at 12:30pm to be shown on TNT Sports.

Then after the international break, both matches against Tottenham Hotspur and Manchester City have been moved to Sundays for Sky Sports. The former is at 2pm on 15 September, while the latter a week later is at 4:30pm.

Havertz tipped to compete for Euro 2024 honour

Arsenal forward Kai Havertz is among the favourites to compete for the Euro 2024 golden boot, according to bookmakers.

The German international is fourth favourite. He has scored twice so far in the tournament, and will have a chance to add to that tally when Germany take on Spaon tonight.

Here are the odds from Bet365.

Cody Gakpo 4/1

Jamal Musiala 6/1

Harry Kane 13/2

Kai Havertz 11/1

Kylian Mbappe 12/1

Jude Bellingham 14/1

Pedro Neto 'talks'

Arsenal have held 'conversations' with representatives of Wolves winger Pedro Neto over a potential summer move to the Emirates Stadium, according to reports.

TEAMtalk claim the the 24-year-old is being monitored, having been on Arsenal's wanted list for some time. They do however face competition from North London rivals Tottenham.

Spurs are said to be 'keeping tabs' on the Wolves man and could make their move if they miss out on other targets.

Wolves are said to be demanding a fee of £60 million for the player if clubs make an approach this window.

Arsenal 'follow' Danish talent

Arsenal are one of three Premier League clubs to be linked with an interest in Leece full-back Patrick Dorgu this summer.

The 19-year-old has caught the eye with his performances at left-back for the Serie A side in the season just gone. He is also able to play further up the field at left wing.

According to Pianetaleece, the teenager is being folowed by Arsenal, Liverpool and Tottenham, who have all 'almost concluded a deal' for the player.

Striker to turn down Arsenal

Manchester United have been leading the race for Bologna striker Joshua Zikzee for some time, but latest reports suggest that Arsenal still do hold an interest.

CaughtOffside mention Arsenal in their latest update, but then go on to say that Zirkzee 'will rebuff any offer that may arrive from the Gunners' in favour of a move to United.

The report adds that United have agreed personal terms with the player and they are now in talks with Bologna in the hope of reaching an agreement over a transfer fee.

Full story on Calafiori

Arsenal have reached an agreement with Italy defender Riccardo Calafiori over personal terms, according to reports.

The Gunners, along with Chelsea have been heavily linked with the defender in recent days, but it seems that Arsenal have now taken the lead in the race and are closing in on a deal. The 22-year-old caught the eye with his performances for Italy in Euro 2024, despite the nation’s exit at the round of 16 stage.

Read the full story here.

Riccardo Calafiori 'agreement'

Arsenal have 'agreed terms' over a five-year contract with Riccardo Calafiori, according to Fabrizio Romano.

It is added that the two teams are discussing a fee, which will be around the €50 million (£42.3m) mark.

'Disaster' Riccardo Calafiori verdict delivered

Legendary Italian sporting director Walter Sabatini has labelled Arsenal's possible capture of Riccardo Calafiori as a 'disaster' for Serie A.

Arsenal are said to be leading the race for the defender, after he impressed with his performances at Euro 2024. Some reports suggest that the Gunners are closing in on a deal.

Speaking to Italian outlet Radio Sportiva, Sabatini's comments will only increase the excitement around the Emirates Stadium.

“It’s a disaster when strong, young players like him leave our league. €45million as a valuation is a huge sum but defenders are paid even more these days," he said.

“I think it’s the minimum for someone like him: left-footed, physically imposing, authoritative and with personality in the game.

“Let’s remember what he did in the 96th minute against Croatia: he came out with the ball at his feet, ran 40 meters, took on the defence and passed the ball.

“These are plays you only do if you have quality and the courage to take risks and to execute the action is something only great players do.”

Transfer meeting

Arsenal representatives will meet with Lazio over a potential deal for Nuno Tavares in the 'coming days', according to reports in Italy.

Calciomercato report that Lazio are interested in the full-back, but he is not a priority for the Serie A side. Lazio are said to also be looking at other options.

It is said the Lazio are keen on a loan deal, but only if a place in the squad becomes available.

Barcelona transfer competition

Arsenal linked Nico Williams is reportedly one of Barcelona's top targets this summer.

The winger has impressed with Spain at Euro 2024, and has the chance to catch the eye again when his team take on Germany in the quarter-final tonight.

Arsenal are on of several clubs to be linked with an interest. But HITC now report that Williams is one of Barcelona's top transfer targets, with the player himself keen on a move to the Nou Camp.

Declan Rice verdict delivered

Former Arsenal man Emmanuel Petit has said that he 'doesn't recognise' Declan Rice playing for England compared to the performances he gives for Arsenal.

Rice is expected to again start in a defensive midfield position for the Three Lions against Austria on Saturday. But Petit says that the position doesn't get the best out of the Arsenal man.

He told Gambling.com:

“I don’t recognise Declan Rice playing for England as he isn’t playing the same position as he does for Arsenal. I really like when Declan Rice plays as a box-to-box player as he can support the strikers and be close to the penalty area, shooting from outside the box.

"The fact he is playing as a holding midfielder doesn’t make sense to me, he can’t play there. You are only getting around 60% of his quality by doing so. I think the lack of confidence is not helping him.

"Declan Rice is not playing in the same environment he has at his club. Arteta and Arsenal have a very clear DNA on the pitch and this isn’t the case with the National team. You can see they are struggling as a team, so I am not surprised Rice hasn’t been able to give his best so far for England in that position.”

Arsenal told to sign Premier League striker

Former Arsenal captain William Gallas has told Arsenal to make a move for Aston Villa striker this summer, suggesting that the England man could form a striking partnership with Gabriel Jesus.

He told Gambling Zone:

"I know Arsenal want a striker and they definitely need one as they need something different to Gabriel Jesus.

"I like Ollie Watkins from Aston Villa. I think would be a good profile for Arsenal, he can stretch defences and offer something different to Gabriel Jesus. I liked the way he performed when he came on for England against Denmark in their last game.

"He’s the kind of player you would want to play up front with someone else. He’s quick, intelligent and a player like him would be good for Arsenal, especially if he plays with someone who can link with him up front.

"Gabriel Jesus was injured last season but you need a striker who can score you 20 plus goals, Watkins did and he might be the player that sees Arsenal over the line for the title next season."

Jakub Kiwior stance

With Arsenal being heavily linked with Riccardo Calafiori, it puts doubts over the future of Jakub Kiwior's future at the club.

According to the Mirror, Juventus are among the clubs showing an interest in the Poland international. They do however face competition from AC Milan, Napoli and Roma.

Arsenal will not however sell the player on the cheap, having paid £20 million for the defender in January 2023.

William Saliba praise

Manchester City's Bernardo Silva has heaped praise on Arsenal defender William Saliba ahead of the meeting between the two in Euro 2024.

France come up against Portugal in the quarter-final of the competition tonight (8pm kick-off). Saliba is expected to start for Les Bleus.

Ahead of the game, Silva said:

"Saliba is a rival in the Premier League and he is a wonderful player as well, one that I really like."

"I like the way he plays, his concentration, his focus.

"He is always ready to help the team and it will not be easy against him."