Arsenal have been handed a huge boost to their hopes of signing a dream Thomas Partey replacement following a shock transfer update. The Ghana international sees his current contract expire this summer and therefore is expected to depart north London as a free agent.
Mikel Arteta looked to have prepared for his eventual departure with the addition of Declan Rice in a record-breaking £105million deal back in 2023, however he has been more frequently used as a No.8. Mikel Merino was another midfielder brought in recently but has also been utilised further forward.
In terms of possible defensive midfield signings, Martin Zubimendi of Real Sociedad has been a long-term target with Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Liverpool all interested. However, the Gunners look to have won the race for his signature with a deal to bring him in ahead of the 2025/26 season seemingly all but wrapped up.
Despite that, a great market opportunity in midfield looks set to be available to Arteta. Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich is another that sees his deal come to an end this summer and while some extension talks have taken place, it now looks unlikely he will remain with the Bavarians.
According to Christian Falk from German outlet Bild, Bayern have sensationally withdrawn their new contract offer for Kimmich. It was noted in their report that the highly-rated 30-year-old was informed earlier in the week as the German giants are frustrated at his hesitation to confirm a final decision.
As a result, it appears as though Kimmich could be available on a free transfer but Liverpool, Barcelona and others are expected to be interested. With that and many other deals in mind, the Gunners could be set for a very busy summer with a replacement for Jorginho also seemingly needed.
The addition of a striker is another priority with Alexander Isak and Benjamin Sesko two options. While not an obvious issue, Arsenal will also need to sign a new back-up goalkeeper as Neto will return to Bournemouth at the end of the season.
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