22 May 2019 18:29:18
Ed, who are we looking at for CM? Last I heard, Pablo Fornals and Piotr Zielinski were being looked at. Isco may also be available but I would assume he's out of our price range? Thanks.
{Ed002's Note - James Maddison (CM/AM) is emerging as a summer target for Arsenal (due largely to preferred choices not being available) but Leicester will resist selling him this summer unless a ridiculous offer is made and a move to Arsenal is very unlikely
Adrien Rabiot (CM/AM) - Emery wants him but wages will be very high and interest from elsewhere will likely win out. Obviously Rabiot is in a position now where he can negotiate a summer deal (let's assume that to be a signing on fee, a wage/bonus package, agent and third party fees) with any club outside of the remit of the FFF. This includes Arsenal and a number of other sides. Don't hold your breath - it probably won't happen.
Kai Havertz (CM/AM) option to Rabiot but won't happen as his future is largely mapped out with a move happening in 2020. I would forget him.
Joe Aribo (CM) remains of interest - but is he ready to step up? Charlton are to offer him the best deal possible.
Nicolo Barella (CM) Napoli and Chelsea failed with approaches in January - and he wants to be a starter and stay in Italy - so very difficult. Don't hold your breath as it won't happen.
Pablo Fornals (CM/AM) still being considered but in talks with another side
Ever Banega (CM) - Emery again likes the player but the club are not so keen, but if the preferred choices are not available he may need to be considered again}
22 May 2019 19:50:08
Thanks Ed, much appreciated.
23 May 2019 09:58:40
Amazing insight ed. It's interesting to see no mention not James Rodriguez. Do you think he will leave Bayern this year and and if at all are Arsenal interested?
{Ed002's Note - James will be returned to Real MAdrid this summer and then sold on. There is an effort to get him involved in a part exchange deal but that is proving difficult and the one interested side can't sensibly take him this summer. It is nothing to do with Arsenal.}