Martinelli wants to stay, Vinicius watch intensifies
Gabriel Martinelli has made his call. The Brazilian wants to stay at Arsenal and fight for his place, even with the club monitoring Vinicius Junior's contract situation at Real Madrid (2). Arsenal are ready to submit a first official offer for Vinicius if talks with Madrid collapse (4) (10). Real Madrid have sent a counter-offer to Vinicius to extend, aware of Arsenal's interest (10). Martinelli's decision does not shut the door on the Vinicius pursuit, it simply means Arsenal would reshape the attack rather than replace a departing starter.
Stones picks Inter, not Arsenal
John Stones is off the table. The former Manchester City defender has verbally agreed to join Inter Milan on a free transfer, Fabrizio Romano confirms (3) (8) (12). Arsenal and Liverpool were both in the conversation, but Stones chose Serie A. At 32, he wanted a new challenge outside England (3).
Bruno Guimaraes priced above £80m
Newcastle have set their price. If Arsenal want Bruno Guimaraes this summer, it will take more than £80m (1). The Brazilian midfielder remains a long-term target, but that fee makes a deal complicated while the club pursues attacking reinforcements.
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Nico Williams back on the radar
Arsenal have revived interest in Nico Williams after his performances in Spain's World Cup win (5). He is one of several wide options being assessed alongside Vinicius and Bradley Barcola. Williams has a release clause at Athletic Club, which simplifies the negotiation if Arsenal decide to move.
Dani Olmo contact made, Barcola prefers Liverpool
Arsenal have made contact over a possible move for Barcelona's Dani Olmo (6). The attacking midfielder offers a different profile to the wide forwards being tracked. Meanwhile, Bradley Barcola wants a Premier League move and has informed PSG, but Liverpool are the frontrunners (9).
Romero link raises eyebrows
This one is divisive. Arsenal are reportedly considering a move for Tottenham captain Cristian Romero as defensive cover with William Saliba injured (7). A Spurs captain crossing the North London divide would be one of the most controversial transfers in recent memory.
Fan reactions
The Vinicius links have the fanbase split between excitement and disbelief. Sean Dyche's quote doing the rounds sums up the mood: "If you're Arsenal, get a foot on the throat now!" (4). Over on the Liverpool subreddit, Arsenal fans are debating whether Barcola would have chosen London over Anfield had the club pushed harder (3). Real Madrid supporters, meanwhile, seem confident the counter-offer keeps Vinicius at the Bernabéu. Full thread.
