Arsenal’s summer transfer plans have exploded into action after Mikel Arteta held a revealing press conference alongside club executives, delivering huge updates on some of the most significant deals the club is pursuing.
The Gunners look set for an ambitious summer overhaul powered by a fresh £200 million cash injection from owner Stan Kroenke, especially to bolster the left-wing position amid uncertainty around Gabriel Martinelli’s future.
First up was the most eye-catching story — the potential signing of Rodrygo from Real Madrid. Arteta announced that Arsenal have officially restarted talks to try to tempt the Brazilian winger to the Emirates.
Initially, Real Madrid had deemed Rodrygo off-limits, especially with Kylian Mbappé joining their already star-studded attack.
However, Arteta suggested that Madrid’s plans to reshape their squad might leave the door open for a lucrative offer.
The manager was full of praise for Rodrygo, calling him a “special player” who could completely change the dynamic of Arsenal’s frontline.
Another surprise twist came with Benjamin Šeško’s transfer saga.
The deal had looked all but dead after the striker committed to staying with RB Leipzig for another season.
Yet Arteta hinted that things have shifted in the past day and that Arsenal remain very much in the picture.
“Nothing is ever truly off until it’s off,” he said cryptically, fueling speculation that Šeško’s camp is receptive again after some last-minute complications with Leipzig.
Tensions also rose when Arteta disclosed Chelsea’s latest demand in ongoing negotiations.
The Blues are reportedly pursuing one of Arsenal’s promising talents as part of a potential swap for Conor Gallagher or Noni Madueke.
The manager named either Ethan Nwaneri or Myles Lewis-Skelly as Chelsea’s requested makeweights — an idea that Arsenal fans strongly rejected on social media.
Arteta assured supporters that the club values its academy graduates highly and would be cautious before agreeing to any such terms.
Thomas Partey, meanwhile, looks to be on his way out. Arteta acknowledged that the veteran midfielder is ready to leave after many years of service.
Talks are already at an advanced stage with clubs in Saudi Arabia and Juventus leading the race for his signature.
Arsenal aim to finalize his transfer in the coming week as they look to rebuild their midfield with younger legs.
Lastly, the most significant news was Stan Kroenke’s decision to release an additional £200 million, mainly focused on the left-wing position, where Gabriel Martinelli has been first choice.
Although no bids have been made for Martinelli yet, top European clubs like PSG and Bayern Munich are thought to be circling.
The cash boost signals that Arsenal plan to compete for elite names such as Nico Williams, Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, and Pedro Neto to strengthen their squad.
Edu Gaspar echoed this ambition, promising that the club will fully back Arteta in reshaping the team.
Altogether, this summer looks set to be one of the most eventful in Arsenal’s recent history.
