Arsenal Transfer News Roundup: Gunners suffer Joshua Zirkzee blow; club agree deal for Italian ace, and more - July 6, 2024
Arsenal are expected to have a busy summer as they look to improve their squad before the start of the new campaign. Mikel Arteta's team were a whisker away from winning the Premier League title last season but finished second, behind Manchester City.
Meanwhile, the Gunners have suffered a setback in their efforts to secure the services of Bologna striker Joshua Zirkzee. Elsewhere, the north London side are gaining ground in their pursuit of Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori.
On that note, here's a look at the key Arsenal transfer stories as on July 6, 2024:
Arsenal suffer Joshua Zirkzee blow
Manchester United are the favourites to sign Joshua Zirkzee this summer, according to Caught Offside. The Dutch striker is a sought-after man this summer following his exploits with Bologna in the 2023-24 campaign.
Zirkzee scored 12 goals and set up seven in 37 games across competitions, forcing Arsenal to take note. Arteta is looking for a new No. 9 this summer and is eyeing multiple candidates for the job.
Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah have failed to impress, and the latter is also linked with an exit from the Emirates. The Gunners have reportedly identified Zirkzee as an option for the job after failing to convince Benjamin Sesko to leave RB Leipzig this summer.
However, it appears that the Red Devils have taken the lead in the race for the Dutchman. The report adds that Zirkzee will turn down any advances from the north London side, as he prefers to move to Old Trafford. AC Milan also have their eyes on the 23-year-old but are now eyeing alternatives.
Gunners agree deal for Riccardo Calafiori, says Fabrizio Romano
Arsenal have reached an agreement on personal terms with Riccardo Calafiori ahead of a possible move this summer, according to acclaimed transfer guru Fabrizio Romano. The Italian defender made a name for himself with Bologna in the 2023-24 campaign and is being eyed by multiple clubs this summer.
Arteta has identified the 22-year-old as the perfect candidate to improve his attack. Calafiori is versatile enough to operate at left-back as well as centre-back, and his qualities have apparently convinced Arteta.
The Gunners have struck a deal with the player's camp for a contract till 2029 and are working to reach an agreement with the Serie A club. Bologna reportedly want €50 million for their prized asset because the player's former club FC Basel will receive 50% from his sale.
Aaron Ramsdale could leave on loan, says journalist
Aaron Ramsdale could leave the Emirates on loan this summer, according to journalist Dharmesh Sheth. The English goalkeeper dropped down the pecking order last season after Arsenal had signed David Raya on loan from Brentford.
The Spanish custodian enjoyed a highly fruitful spell under Arteta, registering 20 clean sheets in 41 games and winning the Premier League Golden Glove. The Gunners have opted to sign him permanently this summer, leaving Ramsdale in a limbo.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Sheth insisted that the Englishman's future is likely to be decided at the end of Euro 2024.
“All options remain open regarding Aaron Ramsdale. His Arsenal contract still has two years to run with the option of a further year. However, he found his game time limited last season following the arrival of David Raya,” said Sheth.
He continued:
“Arsenal don’t want to lose him but understand if he wants regular first team football. Any potential deal would have to work for all parties – and a loan cannot be ruled out."
He concluded:
“There has been tentative interest in Ramsdale but it’s likely his future will be discussed after the Euros. Arsenal have now triggered the option to make David Raya’s loan move from Brentford permanent.”
Despite his struggles, Ramsdale won't be short of options if he decides to leave.