Arsenal transfer news

ARSENAL goalkeeper Alex Runarsson is reportedly set to join Turkish side Altay Spor after just a year spent at the Emirates.The Icelandic shot-stopper has failed to impress since joining from French outfit Dijon last year in a £1.5million deal.
Turkish outfit Altay Spor are reportedly closing in on the signing of Arsenal goalkeeper Alex RunarssonCredit: Reuters
Runarsson, 26, was guilty of a howler against Manchester City in the Carabao Cup in December after fumbling Riyad Mahrez’s free-kick into his own net.
He has played just once since the 4-1 defeat against the Citizens, with Mat Ryan brought in on loan during the winter transfer window to provide back-up for Bernd Leno.
And according to journalist Ege Engin, he is close to linking up with newly-promoted Super Lig side Altay Spor on loan.
Goal have confirmed that Runarsson is set to depart, with a report stating that it could be a permanent transfer.
Meanwhile Football.London has declared the player will be leaving on loan, with it unclear if Altay Spor have an option-to-buy clause.
The Express have claimed that Arsenal will not sign a replacement for the outgoing Runarsson.
Instead, they will promote highly-rated academy star Arthur Okonkwo to provide competition for the No1 spot.
Though he will likely be the third-choice goalkeeper as Arteta looks to bring in another back-up following the end of Ryan’s loan spell.

COMPETITION: WIN A MERCEDES AMG A45S WORTH £51,000 PLUS UP TO £50k IN CASH
Icelandic shot-stopper Runarsson has featured in just six games for the Gunners since joining last yearCredit: Kevin Quigley-The Daily Mail

West Brom ace Sam Johnstone has been linked with a switch to North London once he returns from international duty at Euro 2020.
And his England team-mate Aaron Ramsdale is another potential option for Arsenal.
Arsenal are yet to announce any arrivals this summer, though they are closing in on two signings.
Benfica left-back Nuno Tavares is in England ahead of his £7m switch to provide cover for Kieran Tierney.
Meanwhile Anderlecht skipper Albert Sambi Lokonga is believed to be nearing a move to replace Matteo Guendouzi.
Luke Shaw ‘loves’ Bukayo Saka and says he would love Arsenal ace to be his child More

ASTON VILLA are reportedly set to make a third offer for Arsenal playmaker Emile Smith Rowe.The 20-year-old has been the subject of two failed bids by the Villans, believed to be in the region of £25million and £30m.
Arsenal ace Emile Smith Rowe is being chased by Aston Villa, who are preparing a third offerCredit: Getty
Arsenal are believed to have no interest in parting ways with the England youth international, who still has two years left on his deal.
And the Gunners are understood to be in talks with the midfielder about extending his stay in North London.
But due to the slow negotiations between the two parties, Villa have been left hopeful they can persuade Smith Rowe about making a move to the Midlands.
According to the Mirror, Dean Smith’s side are preparing a new bid of over £30m to land the ex-RB Leipzig loanee.
The Birmingham Mail have even stated that Villa’s sporting director Johan Lange has been left encouraged by their pursuit of the youngster following talks with his representaives.
They add that Smith Rowe has been left ‘blown away’ by interest from Villa, where he will now discuss his future with boss Mikel Arteta in the coming days.
Smith Rowe was a shining light in an otherwise disappointing season for Arsenal having chipped in with four goals and seven assists in 33 games in all competitions.
Transfer guru Fabrizio Romano has declared that he has a ‘verbal agreement’ with Arsenal about a new long-term contract.
COMPETITION: WIN A MERCEDES AMG A45S WORTH £51,000 PLUS UP TO £50k IN CASH
The Gunners remain confident that playmaker Smith Rowe will sign a new deal at the EmiratesCredit: Getty

He tweeted: “Before Emile was going to holiday this summer, he had like a verbal agreement ready with Arsenal, this is what I know.
“So he’s waiting to come back from holiday and then to meet with Arsenal, complete some details and then sign the new contract with Arsenal.
“So from Smith Rowe’s side, he wants to stay at Arsenal, many times he said about he’s living his dream playing for Arsenal.
“He wants to stay and Arsenal are so happy with him.”
Luke Shaw ‘loves’ Bukayo Saka and says he would love Arsenal ace to be his child More