The offseason is here for Arsenal FC, and that means this Gunners squad won’t be reunited again until training camp commences in July. However, it’s been a very busy summer already, and we’re only just getting warmed up.
It’s certainly going to be an exciting transfer window at the Emirates, with a whole lot of topics to discuss. Let’s take a spin through today’s headlines.
–Jack Wilshere has already confirmed his departure from the Emirates, ending his 17 year stay at the club, but where will he land? Having featured only 66 times in Premier League competition over the past four seasons due to a slew of injuries, his potential suitors will no doubt be wary of committing to a longer term deal.
It is worth noting though that Wilshere was healthy enough to see a lot of action this past season.
West Ham United are reportedly keen on having Wilshere become a part of Manuel Pellegrini’s makeover of the club, but there seems to be a sticking point holding this deal up. The Hammers only want to give Wilshere a one year offer. Obviously this would provide an ideal chance for Wilshere to stay in London, but if it doesn’t happen, Juventus and Inter Milan are among the other clubs that are interested, according to reports.
The Daily Star has more at this link.
-Staying with midfielder transfer rumors today, as the position is probably Arsenal’s number one area in need of an upgrade, Argentinian Ever Banega could be the next transfer target, after fellow South American Lucas Torreira.
The Sampdoria/Uruguay holding midfielder is set to be announced as a member of the Gunners following the World Cup; meanwhile, new manager Unai Emery could be bringing over one of his former players in Banega.
Banega worked under Emery for two years at Sevilla, where they won back-to-back Europa League titles. Both Sevilla and Arsenal will be in the UEL again this upcoming season, so whether Banega stays put or follows his former mentor to north London, he’ll get the opportunity to play in the European consolation bracket again in 2018-19.
Arsenal are reportedly willing to trigger his release clause, and The Sun has more on this transfer narrative at this link.
Paul M. Banks runs The Sports Bank.net and TheBank.News, which is partnered with News Now. Banks, a former writer for NBC Chicago.com and Chicago Tribune.com, is currently a regular contributor to SB Nation, WGN CLTV and Chicago Now.
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