Arsenal Nears Completion of Two-Year Transfer Objective with £12.7m Deal
Mikel Arteta appears to have finally received the go-ahead to conclude his two-year-long transfer pursuit for Arsenal. The Gunners’ manager has significantly revamped his former club over recent seasons with strategic signings, culminating in a £200 million spending spree last summer.
Jurrien Timber, Declan Rice, and Kai Havertz were all brought in on permanent contracts before the 2023/24 season, while David Raya joined on loan from Brentford with a £27 million purchase option that is expected to be finalized soon.
Due to these substantial investments, Arteta and technical director Edu need to ensure that Arsenal adheres to Profit and Sustainability Rules (PSR) while aiming to further strengthen the squad. With the summer transfer window opening soon, several Premier League clubs are making significant moves, potentially giving Arsenal a major advantage.
Wolves Transfer May Pave the Way for Neto
Rodrigo Gomes is set to join Wolves from SC Braga in a €15 million (£12.7 million) transfer, enhancing Gary O’Neil’s attacking lineup. O’Neil faced financial constraints during the January transfer window, preventing him from bolstering his attack, and may need to sell a key player to balance the books after acquiring Gomes.
Arsenal has shown long-term interest in Pedro Neto, dating back to 2022. Persistent injuries have hindered a potential move, but this summer could change that scenario.
According to football.london: “Neto missed significant portions of the recent season due to injuries, but Arsenal has an opportunity. Adding cover for Bukayo Saka is crucial, and Neto’s decreased market value might enable Arteta and Edu to make a move.
“With Wolves needing to comply with PSR, they might be compelled to sell Neto at a lower price. Despite his injuries, the Portuguese international recorded 14 goal contributions in 24 appearances, totaling 1,729 minutes.
“If Neto is signed at a reduced fee, his fitness issues might not be a major concern, especially since he won’t necessarily be a consistent starter.”
Sesko Decision Imminent
Arsenal is eagerly awaiting a transfer decision from RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko. The Gunners, along with Chelsea and Manchester United, are vying for the Slovenian international. Although Sesko has not yet made a final decision on his future, an announcement is expected soon.
Transfer expert Fabrizio Romano mentioned on his Here We Go podcast that a decision regarding Sesko’s next club will be made shortly.
According to football.london: “Sesko’s focus is likely on Slovenia’s Euro 2024 campaign, which begins soon, making the timing of his transfer decision somewhat surprising.
“However, the 20-year-old may want to avoid further speculation during the tournament. Reports suggest that interested clubs will activate his £55 million release clause only if they receive certain guarantees, making a deal straightforward.
“Given Arteta’s preference for completing transfers early in the window, Arsenal hopes to be Sesko’s chosen destination.”
