Martinelli transfer-listed as Calafiori draws Madrid interest

Martinelli told he can leave

Arsenal have made Gabriel Martinelli available for sale this summer. The Brazilian winger is one of four players to be told they can go as the club gets ruthless in the transfer market (1). This is a significant shift, Martinelli has been a core part of Arteta's attack. His departure would reshape the forward line and likely trigger a replacement signing.

Calafiori wanted by Real Madrid

Riccardo Calafiori is a prime target for Real Madrid, who are reshaping their defence after David Alaba's exit. Jose Mourinho has reportedly approved the move, calling it feasible (4). Real Madrid have already made contact with Arsenal regarding the Italian defender (5). Dortmund's Nico Schlotterbeck, City's Joško Gvardiol, and Bournemouth's Dean Huijsen are also on their shortlist.

Timber ruled out of the World Cup

Jurriën Timber will miss the World Cup with a groin injury. It is a brutal blow for the Netherlands and for the Arsenal defender, who had been expected to feature prominently this summer (2).

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Bayern pushing for Rashford

Vincent Kompany is driving Bayern Munich's push to beat Arsenal to Marcus Rashford (6). If Martinelli leaves, Rashford or Anthony Gordon could be the replacement. Barcelona and Chelsea are also monitoring the situation, but Kompany's involvement gives Bayern an edge.

Iraola warns Kroupi off a move

Bournemouth boss Andoni Iraola has urged Eli Junior Kroupi to stay put amid Arsenal interest. Kroupi, viewed as a potential Gabriel Jesus replacement, has only just broken into the Premier League. Iraola: "He's still very young and has just arrived into the Premier League. This is the best place for him to continue his evolution" (3).

Alex Scott on the radar

Arsenal are among the clubs tipped to sign Bournemouth midfielder Alex Scott this summer, with Manchester United and Liverpool also in the mix (7). The England Under-21 international fits the profile Arteta has targeted in recent windows.

Star defender in exit talks

An unnamed Arsenal defender is reportedly in talks to leave following the Champions League final defeat (8). With Calafiori already linked to Madrid, the defensive reshuffle could be significant this summer.

Fan reactions

The mood is a strange mix of summer excitement and transfer anxiety. With 15 Arsenal players heading to the World Cup, fans are tracking the squad's international commitments closely, and the Timber injury has landed hard. The Martinelli news has split opinion: some see it as overdue ruthlessness, others are stunned a player of his profile is being moved on. David Raya winning Player of the Month offered a small bright spot. Full discussion here.

Sources

  • 1. football365.com — Arsenal get ‘ruthless’ by telling major star he can go with three other players transfer-listed
  • 2. voetbalprimeur.nl — 'Heel harde klap' voor Oranje: 'Gewoon een fantastische speler'
  • 3. justarsenal.com — Iraola urges Arsenal target not to change clubs
  • 4. football365.com — Mourinho ‘approves’ Arsenal transfer as Real Madrid raid on Gunners is now ‘feasible’
  • 5. managingmadrid.com — Real Madrid targeting another left-footed defender after Alaba departure
  • 6. justarsenal.com — Kompany is behind Bayern Munich’s bid to beat Arsenal to attacker
  • 7. justarsenal.com — Arsenal tipped to land Bournemouth midfielder this summer
  • 8. fourfourtwo.com — Arsenal report: Star defender in talks to leave, following Champions League final loss
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