Arsenal were busy in the transfer market last summer and could face a repeat in 2026 even if they win the Premier League
Sandro Tonali continues to be the subject of speculation(Image: PA)
On Sunday, Arsenal will have a chance to win their first trophy of the season – and their first major silverware since 2020 – when they face Manchester City in the Carabao Cup final. As we approach the business end of the season, Mikel Arteta and his squad are still in contention for four trophies.
The Carabao Cup is the most straightforward, in the sense that it only requires them to better their opponents over 90 (or perhaps 120) minutes. However, they have finished as runners-up three times since last winning the trophy in 1993 – most recently when City beat them 3-0 in 2018.
They need three more wins to lift the FA Cup, while a nine-point lead in the league – albeit after playing a game more than closest challengers City – leaves them in pole position for the title. A first-ever Champions League win remains a possibility after Tuesday’s victory over Bayer Leverkusen, with Sporting CP next up in the quarter-finals.
Concerns over PSR could force Arsenal to be creative in the summer transfer window, but that doesn’t mean they won’t sign any new senior players. Here are Mirror Football‘s latest lines including updates on two potential targets.
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READ MORE: Champions League quarter-final ties in full as Liverpool and Arsenal’s opponents confirmedREAD MORE: Man City star Jeremy Doku fires Arsenal two-word warning ahead of Carabao Cup final
Tonali path opens up
Arsenal-linked midfielder Sandro Tonali has also been mentioned in connection with Manchester United. However, the Red Devils now look to be set on the Italian’s team-mate Bruno Guimaraes.
United are reported to be in advanced talks for the Brazil international, who joined Newcastle in January 2022. The 28-year-old is under contract until 2028, with a fee of £69million mooted.
Juventus have also been monitoring Tonali but are believed to feel they can’t compete with English clubs financially. This could leave Arsenal with a free run at the former AC Milan star, though Newcastle are unlikely to sanction exits for both midfielders without a top replacement lined up.
Pio Esposito agent speaks out
Arsenal could find themselves making changes up front over the summer, with questions over the future of Gabriel Jesus and Gabriel Martinelli. Inter Milan star Pio Esposito is one player whose name has come up after an impressive season for club and country.
The Italy international, 20, returned to the San Siro after banging in the goals on loan at Spezia last term. He already has eight in all competitions for Inter along with three in five senior international appearances for the Azzurri.
Mario Giuffredi, the player’s agent, has now confirmed Arsenal are admirers of the youngster. But indicated a move isn’t on the cards for the foreseeable future.
“Despite Arsenal’s interest, our plans are clear,” he told Radio CRC. “He’s happy at Inter and will be the future of the Nerazzurri for the next 10 years. The boy is in love with Inter.”
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