with Mikel Arteta making it clear he wants the deal done before the transfer window slams shut.
Insiders close to the Emirates have revealed that Arteta is personally pushing for this signing, seeing the player as a crucial addition to bolster the frontline. The Gunners have already been busy in the market, securing multiple big names to strengthen key areas, but the manager believes there’s still one missing piece that could take the squad from strong contenders to genuine favourites in every competition.
Why this signing matters: Arsenal are coming off a season where they showed incredible growth, narrowly missing out on the Premier League title and reaching deep into other competitions. With the Champions League back on the agenda, Arteta knows he needs more attacking options to rotate effectively, avoid burnout, and ensure Arsenal remain competitive in every match from cold rainy nights in December to high-pressure knockout ties in Europe.
The target in question is seen as a versatile forward capable of playing across multiple positions in attack, offering pace, creativity, and a clinical edge in front of goal. Sources suggest that Arsenal’s scouting team has been tracking him for months, with multiple reports and performance analyses already presented to Arteta and Edu Gaspar.
A source inside the club told reporters:
“Mikel is relentless when it comes to improving this squad. He knows exactly the type of player he wants, and he’s made it clear to the board this is the one. If we can get this deal over the line, it’s going to be massive for the club.”
The current status: Negotiations are advancing steadily, with Arsenal expected to submit the formal £44m proposal in the coming days. The urgency comes not only from the ticking transfer clock but also from growing interest from other European giants, who could swoop in if Arsenal hesitate. Arteta and the recruitment team are keen to avoid a last-minute bidding war.
The bigger picture: Should this deal be completed, it will be Arsenal’s 7th signing of the summer a statement of intent from a club that’s no longer just building for the future, but going all-in for silverware now. From the Premier League title race to the Champions League dream, the Gunners are assembling a squad that can fight and win on all fronts.