Trossard to Besiktas, deal nearly done
Leandro Trossard is on his way out. Besiktas have agreed to all of Arsenal's and the player's demands, and the move is close to completion (1). It has been quiet but steady, his exit was expected after the World Cup, and now it is happening. Trossard played a meaningful role in the title-winning campaign. Fans will remember the goals, the sharp turns, the noise when he scored.
Bruno Guimaraes on the radar, £80m the hurdle
Arsenal want Bruno Guimaraes. An £80m offer could open negotiations with Newcastle (2). That is the number being floated. Midfield is an area the club are clearly looking at, and Guimaraes would be a statement. The price tag is the obvious problem. You do not spend £80m lightly, even as champions.
Romano says a Greek winger wants Arsenal
Fabrizio Romano reports that a Greek international winger wants to join Arsenal, and Andrea Berta is finalising the agreement (3). No name yet. The club are stacking attacking targets, Oyarzabal, Kofane, now this mystery winger. Something is clearly in motion.
Youth signing: Elijah Upson crosses the divide
Elijah Upson, 18, has left Tottenham and opted to join Arsenal (4). A young defender swapping north London colours. These moves rarely happen and they rarely go unnoticed. Upson will join the youth setup, and the fact he chose your club over staying at Spurs says plenty.
Stuart Pearce: don't risk Rice's injury
Stuart Pearce has warned England not to gamble with Declan Rice's fitness ahead of the World Cup quarter-final against Norway. "The only thing that might be a consideration to him is the injury, a concern that's been with him for a few games," Pearce said (5). Rice is your midfield anchor. Any aggravation now could bleed into the start of the season. England face Martin Odegaard's Norway. One of your captains will go home.
Oyarzabal on the list after a strong World Cup
Arsenal are watching Mikel Oyarzabal after his performances for Spain at the World Cup (6). The Real Sociedad winger is another name in the mix as the club reshape the attack. Trossard is leaving, Jesus is available. The forward line is being redrawn.
