The Gunners are the talk of the papers today after a superb victory over Bayern Munich at the Emirates.
The past 7 days have seen Alexis Sanchez rebuff any interest from Real Madrid declaring he wants to stay at the Gunners, the long term transfer saga of Karim Benzema killed off after he declared he has no intention of leaving Madrid, and reports that we will chase his Real team mates Isco and Jese instead.
Other rumours include a big money move for Atletico star Antoine Griezmann, the signing of Celta Vigo talisman Nolito, Leverkusen’s highly rated Hakan Calhanoglu, Kiev’s powerful forward Alexsandr Kokorin and PSG playermaker Javier Pastore. David Ospina’s future has also been in the papers with a move to Besiktas and Marseille on the cards for the Columbian who has lost his place to Peter Cech this season.
Here, Jonathan Kaney has a look at the recent transfer talk from the past couple of days.
Bellerin wants to stay at Arsenal (Mirror)
The speedy Frenchman has been attracting praise for his assured performances at right back this season, and there is talk Luis Enrique may look to bring him back to Barcelona in the summer.
When asked about a potential move to Barcelona he brushed it off and declared his happiness at Arsenal and his gratitude to Wenger:
“I came to Arsenal to stay here. I’m not thinking about going back. I’m happy and I’m playing. It’s my fifth season and I feel like this is my home. I see it as very difficult to leave. I’m very happy to have made the move. The simple fact is that playing in the Premier League and the Champions League makes me very grateful. I’ve played 38 official games at 20 years of age. Not too many can say the same.”
As we saw with Cesc Fabregas, Barcelona are aggressive in the pursuit of players they want, particularly if they are Spanish. In Bellerin we have a serious player on our hands and we must do everything we can to keep him. It’s hugely encouraging that he is speaking so loyally of the club and is grateful for the chance he is given under Wenger.
Valencia ace Andre Gomes in Arsenal’s sights (Metro)
The Metro are reporting that Arsenal are scouting 22-year-old Valencia Andre Gomes. The Portuguese midfielder has been impressive since he made the move to La Liga from Benfica last year and Gunners scouts were watching as he scored an outstanding solo goal in a 3-0 win over Malaga.
He looks the part in La Liga and at just 22 is extremely skilful for his 6,2 height. Looks like he could be a good signing for the Gunners in midfield and definitely one to watch in the coming seasons.
Arsenal miss out in Carvalho chase (Daily Star)
Long term target, 23-year-old defensive midfielder William Carvalho is thought to be close to signing a new deal any day with Sporting Lisbon.
He is widely regarded as one of Europe’s brightest defensive midfield talents and Arsenal were thought to be leading the chase for his £30m signature over other elite clubs due to his admiration for club’s football.
A combative and powerful midfielder, it was unfortunate we couldn’t get him in the summer, however the way things have turned out he would have a battle to wrestle the position from Coquelin. After suffering a terrible leg break injury, it would be a risk to chase him at the moment and signing a new deal at Sporting is best for all parties at the moment.
In the world of football, contracts have little value if he comes back stronger and returns to form. One to watch next summer.