Arsenal are in a buoyant mood at present after a brilliant week in the Premier League and Champions League.
Although the Gunners are looking likely to finish second to Liverpool in the top flight, their 4-0 victory at Ipswich Town was a sign of the confidence which is flowing in the team. The easy win at Portman Road followed an impressive triumph at Real Madrid after a 2-1 win on the night at the Bernabeu secured a 5-1 victory on aggregate.
However, in our latest look at the media headlines, the Gunners’ success could have handed Mikel Arteta a headache in the summer transfer window. Here is football.london’s take on those reports.
Real Madrid want Saka
According to Defensa Central, Real Madrid are keen on signing Bukayo Saka in the summer transfer window. It is claimed that if either Rodrygo or Vinicius Jnr leave the club, Los Blancos would be keen on signing the north London attacker.
It is claimed that Saka’s performance in the Bernabeu has convinced decision makers in the Spanish capital to target the Englishman if either of their current Brazilian wingers choose to leave.
What FL says: “As we are seeing with Trent Alexander-Arnold at present, Real Madrid presents a strong pull for many players. They have nearly an unlimited pot of money to purchase stars and many players aim to one day represent them. Jude Bellingham’s presence means that Saka would have an easy time settling in Madrid.
“However, Arsenal are not in a position where they need to sell and they can offer Saka a brilliant project too. Let’s remember, the Gunners put Madrid to the sword in the last fortnight and ultimately have a strong base to fend off Madrid’s interest. Arsenal fans do not need to be worried just yet.”
Sesko price tag
According to Bild, RB Leipzig have bolstered the asking price for Benjamin Sesko in the summer transfer window. It is believed the striker could cost as much as £86m with both Arsenal and Manchester United looking at his signature.
Sesko has scored 20 goals in 41 appearances so far this season.
What FL says: “Signing Sesko would be a good move for the future of the club. At 21, he has a lot of potential to grow into and he fits the profile of striker that Arsenal want. Sadly, they are paying for that privilege and £86m would take a huge chunk out of the club’s pot. Viktor Gyokeres could cost roughly £30m less but he is five years older.
“In some ways, Arteta needs success in the short-term just to relieve some pressure before pushing ahead to building a project for the future. As such, Gyokeres may be seen as the wiser signing but Sesko may not be available again if the Gunners overlook him in the close season.”