Kimmich and Calafiori sign, Gyokeres deal – Dream Arsenal lineup after £162m transfers – We’re surely winning the premier League next season
Arsenal made their first summer transfer move on Thursday, with more transactions anticipated in the coming weeks. David Raya has now permanently joined Emirates Stadium following a successful loan period last season. The Gunners triggered the £27 million purchase option included in last summer’s deal with Brentford. According to football.london, Raya is not expected to be the only new signing, as Edu and Mikel Arteta aim to strengthen various areas of the squad.
There is significant interest in Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori. The 22-year-old centre-back, who can also play as a left-back, had an impressive season in Serie A, contributing to Bologna’s qualification for the Champions League. His performances for Italy at Euro 2024 have further convinced Arteta that Calafiori would be a valuable addition to the team. Despite competition from Chelsea, Arsenal is well-positioned to secure his signing, especially as they can offer Champions League football and are poised for a potential Premier League title challenge. Bologna has set a €50 million (£42.5 million) asking price for Calafiori, which is considered reasonable given his age and potential. If acquired, Calafiori could fill the left-back position, addressing uncertainties surrounding Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior, while also providing cover for Gabriel at centre-back.
Additionally, Arteta is in pursuit of a central midfielder this summer. Although Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard were regular starters last season, the third midfield spot saw rotation among Jorginho, Thomas Partey, Fabio Vieira, and Emile Smith Rowe. An upgrade is deemed necessary. One potential target is Joshua Kimmich from Bayern Munich. Kimmich, whose contract expires next year, has been linked with a move away from Bayern. He offers versatility, quality, and experience, being able to play as a defensive midfielder or right-back. His presence would enable Rice to play more frequently as a left-sided No. 8. Kimmich, currently representing Germany at Euro 2024, might be available for around €40 million (£33.9 million) if Bayern decides to sell. He has expressed some uncertainty about his future, indicating that he will focus on the European Championship before engaging in any transfer discussions.
Arsenal is also in the market for a forward. While Benjamin Sesko was initially of interest, he has extended his contract with RB Leipzig. Other potential targets include Nico Williams, Johan Bakayoko, and Alexander Isak. Another striker under consideration is Viktor Gyokeres. The 26-year-old had an outstanding season at Sporting CP, scoring 43 goals and providing 15 assists in 50 appearances. Having joined Sporting last summer from Coventry, Gyokeres has some experience in English football. Arsenal would need to meet his €100 million (£85.7 million) release clause to secure his transfer. If signed, Gyokeres would likely lead Arsenal’s attack for the 2024/25 season, supported by Bukayo Saka and either Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard.
A potential Arsenal lineup following the summer transfer window could include: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Kimmich, Rice, Odegaard; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli.
