Como at the Emirates tonight
Arsenal face Como in a pre-season friendly at the Emirates this Wednesday evening. Kick-off is 19:30 BST and you can watch it free on the Arsenal YouTube channel (3). Jurriën Timber is ruled out after minor surgery. The Premier League opener against Coventry City is nine days away.
Lewis-Skelly offered around, no takers yet
An intermediary associated with Myles Lewis-Skelly contacted both Chelsea and Manchester United about a move for the £45m-rated left-back. Both clubs turned down the chance (1) (5). Chelsea's issue was not money, according to reports (5). United are instead pursuing Newcastle's Lewis Hall (1).
Kofane flattered but staying put
Arsenal target Christian Kofane has responded to the interest with a polite no, for now. "I can certainly imagine it, yes. It's one of the best leagues in the world. But I want to take it step by step. I'm young and still have big plans with Bayer Leverkusen," the forward said (6). He added: "I feel very comfortable here." Bayer Leverkusen have given him confidence and opportunity. He is not pushing for an exit.
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Kounde interest, Barca move for Porro
Arsenal retain interest in Barcelona defender Jules Kounde. Barcelona, in turn, have approached Tottenham's Pedro Porro about a move in the opposite direction (4). Nothing concrete yet, but the dominoes are being lined up.
Nico Williams: the injury question
Some voices around the club are questioning whether Nico Williams is the right target. His injury record is the concern (7). With Christos Tzolis impressing internally and Vinicius Junior still the dream, there is internal debate about whether Williams is worth the risk.
Fan reactions
The mood on r/Gunners is restless. One thread on The Athletic's transfer window podcast captured the feeling: the Vini Jr. ambition was thrilling, but without a world-class attacker arriving, this window risks looking like a missed opportunity. There is also a clip doing the rounds of targets getting away while rivals act. The Balogun-to-Spurs rumor from L'Équipe only sharpened the anxiety. Join the discussion.
