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Arsenal have been linked with multiple names so far this summer. Manager Mikel Arteta is working to add more quality to his squad after another failed attempt to win the league.
Meanwhile, the Gunners are yet to make progress in their pursuit of Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori. Elsewhere, two London clubs are interested in midfielder Emil Smith Rowe.
On that note, here's a look at the key Arsenal transfer stories as on July 19, 2024:
Arsenal yet to agree Riccardo Calafiori deal, says Fabrizio Romano
Arsenal are yet to agree a deal with Bologna for the services of Riccardo Calafiori, according to acclaimed transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. The Gunners have identified the Italian defender as their top target this summer and have reportedly agreed terms with him.
Calafiori caught the eye with Bologna last season, registering 37 appearances across competitions. Recent reports have suggested that the north London side have failed in their attempts to include Jakub Kiwior in their offer for the 22-year-old.
In his column for Caught Offside, Romano added that the Italian side want €50 million up front for their prized asset.
“I know Arsenal fans are keen for an update on Riccardo Calafiori, but there are no substantial changes to the situation yet.
"Arsenal and Bologna remain in contact, but there’s no agreement over the €50m fee. The issue is that Bologna want guaranteed money while Arsenal’s proposal includes add-ons structure to get to €50m potential fee,” wrote Romano
He continued:
“Despite what has been suggested elsewhere, there’s no ‘issue’ with Basel: they will receive 50% of the deal, that’s it.
"Bologna want €50m fixed exactly because they have to give over €20m to Basel. This is the point. Let’s see if the clubs can reach a breakthrough in talks soon, but, for now, there isn’t really any major development to report.”
Calafiori was also eyed by Chelsea this summer buy have since left the race.
Crystal Palace and Fulham want Emile Smith Rowe, says journalist
Crystal Palace and Fulham are interested in Emile Smith Rowe, according to journalist Dharmesh Sheth. The English midfielder is a forgotten man at the Emirates, registering just 19 appearances last season.
Arteta is working to add more quality to his side over the summer, and Smith Rowe's situation is unlikely to improve. Despite his recent struggles, the 23-year-old remains could be a fine option for Palace and Fulham.
However, speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Sheth added that Arsenal have already rejected opening offers from the duo for Smith Rowe.
“There’s been strong interest from Crystal Palace and Fulham, and we expected bids to go in. That has transpired, and they have both made bids for Smith Rowe. Both bids were rejected," said Sheth.
He continued:
“It’s expected now that discussions will continue internally at both clubs over whether to go back in with an improved offer, which we fully expect to happen.”
The Englishman is under contract with the Gunners till 2026.
Gunners wanted Andrea Cambiaso, says agent
Arsenal were interested in Andrea Cambiaso this summer, according to his agent Giovanni Bia. Arteta is looking for more options on the left side of his backline, with an upgrade on Jakud Kiwior and Oleksandr Zinchenko fast becoming a priority.
Cambiaso is coming off an impressive campaign with Juventus, registering 39 appearances across competitions. The 24-year-old fits the profile of players recently targeted by the Gunners and was reportedly on their radar this year.
However, speaking to TuttoJuve, Bia confirmed that the Italian has committed his future to the Bianconeri.
“The negotiation (with Juventus over a new contract) was born and concluded within a couple of days because when you work with intelligent people, you always solve problems as quickly as possible.
"Both parties wanted to stay. There was this common desire, so the economic aspect really counted little for Andrea," said Bia.
He added:
“We didn’t argue too much. We were happy with the offer we were made, and we accepted it. Many clubs were looking for him like Arsenal, Manchester United and Real Madrid, who were ready to do something, but he gave his priority to the Bianconeri.”
The north London side have apparently moved on to Riccardo Calafiori, who would be a fine alternative to his compatriot.
