ARSENAL are set to be active in the summer, if indeed they are preparing for a maiden season in the European Super League.
While owner Stan Kroenke is unlikely to care a jot, the Gunners’ current squad would probably be embarrassed on the pitch by the other 11 clubs that have disgraced European football by pledging to break away.
But one man that will care is boss Mikel Arteta, who will surely push for at least some of the expected £310million windfall to be pumped back into his playing squad.
In a state of rebuild, Arteta has had most joy in this relatively lifeless season by playing his youngsters – who, funnily enough, were blooded in the Uefa Europa League.
Currently behind non-breakaway sides Everton, West Ham and Leicester, Arsenal have a lot of work to do to be competitive even domestically.
The Gunners have leaked goals, but in truth will need to strengthen all over the park.
Real Betis’ on-loan Barcelona defender Emerson has been linked with North London, and could replace Hector Bellerin at right-back.
Mat Ryan will be signed permanently from Brighton to back up Bernd Leno, while William Saliba could slot into the defence alongside Rob Holding upon his return from Nice.
Kieran Tierney is already a favourite at left-back, and could be joined at Emirates Stadium by a fellow ex-Celtic team-mate.
French striker Odsonne Edouard has been linked with the Gunners, and for just £15m could replace compatriot Alexandre Lacazette – who may move on to pastures new.
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Granit Xhaka has been revitalised by Arteta, and could have himself a new midfield partner next season.
Lucas Torreira is likely to depart, while Dani Ceballos and Martin Odegaard are set to return to Real Madrid.
But the Gunners, with extra cash in their pockets, could sign Rennes’ teen prodigy Eduardo Camavinga – who is yet to extend his contract beyond 2022.
Bukayo Saka and Emile Smith Rowe are an excellent advert for Arsenal’s academy at London Colney and have made themselves indispensable this season.
And perhaps this could finally be the year that they are joined by Crystal Palace star Wilfried Zaha, who has long been admired by Arsenal chiefs.
The Eagles demanded £70million for their prized asset back in 2019, and are set to hold firm yet again.
But this could be the summer in which they simply cannot hang on anymore.
Whether or not he will want to join the likely bottom feeders of football’s most soulless venture, however, remains to be seen.
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Source: Soccer - thesun.co.uk
