Timber still weeks away, Saliba in rest mode
Mikel Arteta delivered an update nobody wanted to hear. Jurrien Timber is still weeks from returning, and the manager would not put a timeline on it.
"I cannot be very precise with that," Arteta said after Arsenal's pre-season defeat by Borussia Dortmund on Sunday. "Jurrien is progressing really well, he's on the pitch, he's doing quite a lot right now, but is still weeks away. I cannot say how much" (2).
William Saliba is also sidelined, Arteta described him as being in rest mode. Two starting defenders missing with the Premier League opener 11 days out.
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Arsenal chase Chelsea forward, Spurs left reeling
Arsenal are interested in signing a Chelsea forward for around £70m–£75m, and the deal carries a sting, it would wreck Tottenham's transfer plans too (1).
No name is confirmed in the reports, but Football365 describe it as a move that would devastate a London rival's summer window. The Gunners are moving aggressively.
Pedro Neto odds slashed
The bookmakers think something is brewing. Pedro Neto's odds of joining Arsenal from Chelsea have been cut sharply, signalling a possible deal in motion (6). The winger would add depth to an attack already bolstered by Christos Tzolis this summer.
Roma revive Martinelli interest at cut price
Roma are back in for Gabriel Martinelli, and Arsenal have lowered the asking price to €40m–€45m (3). The Brazilian's output has dipped, and Tzolis has impressed internally, a sale is now being discussed.
Arsenal and West Ham talk Reiss Nelson
Another wide player could be heading out. Arsenal and West Ham are in talks over a deal for Reiss Nelson (8). The squad reshaping continues.
Gyokeres: we play to win it
Viktor Gyokeres was caught off guard by a Community Shield question suggesting it might be treated lightly. His response was sharp, Arsenal will play to win it (7). No friendlies, no warm-ups.
Arsenal Women beat Palace 2–1
Arsenal Women started pre-season with a win on Saturday. Lisa Baum and Chloe Kelly scored in a 2–1 victory over Crystal Palace (5). Renee Slegers' side begin the new campaign at Brighton on 6 September.
