Saka: I'm ready to gamble again
Bukayo Saka says he is feeling much better ahead of England's World Cup opener on Wednesday. He is not hiding from the risk of playing at less than full sharpness. "It's the biggest gamble, especially if you're not feeling your sharpest," Saka said. "I'm happy to take the gamble. It paid off, I'd say. But I am feeling a lot better than I did in March and I'm ready to go" (1). Your star man is fit and in the right headspace.
Arsenal beat Liverpool to a wonderkid signing
Arsenal have won the race for a highly-rated young talent, beating Liverpool to the signing, according to a report (2). Details on the player's identity and fee have not been confirmed, but the Gunners' pull is clear. Fresh off a Premier League title, Arsenal are getting deals done early.
Spurs now leading the Tonali chase
Tottenham have moved ahead in the race for Sandro Tonali. Arsenal and Manchester City were both tracking the Newcastle midfielder, but Spurs are reportedly unwilling to meet Newcastle's asking price either (3). That door is not shut, but your rivals across north London are pushing hardest right now.
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Long-term target misused by Amorim, Arsenal could pounce
A player Arsenal have tracked for some time is reportedly being misused by Ruben Amorim at Manchester City. That could open the door for an accelerated move this summer as Arsenal build on their title-winning campaign (4). Name and position remain under wraps for now.
Madrid join the queue for Mateus Fernandes
Real Madrid have entered the race for West Ham midfielder Mateus Fernandes. Arsenal, Manchester United, and others were already circling the relegated Hammers for the Portuguese talent (5). Madrid's interest complicates things, but Fernandes coming off a relegation means a deal is there to be done.
Christos Tzolis: the £30m winger worth watching
Club Brugge winger Christos Tzolis is firmly on Arsenal's radar. The Greek international carries a £30m price tag, and Mikel Arteta has already spoken directly with him (6). Tzolis has publicly expressed his desire to join. At 24, he fits the profile of a player entering his prime years.
Fan reactions
Arsenal fans are buzzing over Saka's hunger heading into the World Cup. His quote about tasting success and wanting more has hit hard on the subreddit, where supporters see a player hitting his peak at exactly the right time. The transfer chatter is alive too, with fans dissecting the latest Athletic DealSheet for clues on who that mystery wonderkid might be.
