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Nico Williams move to Arsenal doubtful

Spain winger Nico Williams has been linked with a summer move away from Athletic Club, with Premier League big-hitters Arsenal rivalling

Spain winger Nico Williams has been linked with a summer move away from Athletic Club, with Premier League big-hitters Arsenal rivalling Barcelona for his signature

Arsenal will need to make some sales if they’re to land Nico Williams this summer, it has been claimed.

Spain international Williams has been in high demand after starring at Euro 2024, where he scored in the victory over England in the final.

Barcelona are also reportedly interested in the Athletic Club winger, who has a release clause in the region of £50million… though this sum would need to be paid up front.

Arsenal have already confirmed their first summer signing, with David Raya completing a permanent move from Brentford. Williams’ international team-mate was on loan at Arsenal from Brentford last season, and has set the Gunners back £30million.

According to The Athletic, Arsenal need to sell in order to buy if they’re to add a wide player. They’re also keen on strengthening in other areas, with Italy and Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori high on their list.

One of the players who could make way is Emile Smith Rowe. Arsenal are reported to need to free up space as well as funds, and the academy graduate would tick both of those boxes.

The Telegraph report that Fulham have made the England international a top target. Marco Silva’s side have already seen one bid knocked back, but are expected to return with an improved offer for the 23-year-old.

Reiss Nelson’s departure could also allow the Gunners to move for Williams. Sporting director Edu may be tasked with extracting a fee for the 24-year-old winger, who is on the radar of West Ham United according to the Evening Standard.

Elsewhere, Aaron Ramsdale and Kieran Tierney could both leave before the end of the summer. While the injury sustained by Tierney at Euro 2024 could impact a deal, Ramsdale’s pursuit of regular first team football could prompt a summer switch amid Premier League interest.

Another player linked with an exit is Eddie Nketiah. The striker signed a new contract in 2022, but found minutes hard to come by in the second half of last season.

If Arsenal are unable to get a deal over the line for Williams, Barcelona won’t be the only interested party. Chelsea are also reported to be keen, though – unlike their rivals – the Blues would be unable to offer Champions League football.

Some of the Arsenal fringe players named could still be part of the squad as Mikel Arteta’s team begin their pre-season tour of the United States, and could even feature in friendlies across the Atlantic. The Gunners will face Bournemouth on July 24, with matches against Manchester United and Liverpool to follow.

 

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Transfers

United Make Verbal Offer For Victor Osimhen

Victor Osimhen

In what could be a seismic shift in Manchester United’s transfer strategy, the Red Devils have reportedly tabled a “verbal offer” to Napoli striker Victor Osimhen after reaching an agreement to pay the Nigerian’s release clause.

The 26-year-old, currently on loan at Galatasaray, has been one of Europe’s most sought-after forwards, and his potential arrival at Old Trafford could be the catalyst United need to reignite their faltering attack.

The Osimhen Saga: A Verbal Offer on the Table
According to reports from Turkish outlet Sports Digitale, United have joined Paris Saint-Germain in making a verbal offer to Osimhen regarding salary and contract terms. This comes after both clubs reportedly agreed to meet the striker’s release clause, which is set to drop from £100 million to £65 million this summer.

Osimhen’s current loan spell at Galatasaray has been nothing short of sensational. The Nigerian international has netted 17 goals in 23 appearances, propelling the Turkish giants to the top of the Super Lig and into the knockout stages of the Europa League. His blistering form has reignited interest from Europe’s elite, with United and PSG emerging as the frontrunners for his signature.

Yağız Sabuncuoğlu, a reporter for Sports Digitale, revealed that Galatasaray will find it “difficult” to compete with the financial muscle of clubs like United and PSG. While the Turkish transfer window remains open longer than most European leagues, allowing Galatasaray to secure Osimhen’s loan in the first place, it seems almost certain that the striker will depart Istanbul at the end of the season.

Why Osimhen Fits Amorim’s System
Ruben Amorim’s tactical setup at Manchester United relies heavily on a dynamic, physical striker who can stretch defences and create space for the attacking midfielders. Osimhen, with his blend of speed, strength, and relentless pressing, fits the bill perfectly.

The Nigerian forward is a nightmare for defenders, constantly running in behind and exploiting gaps in the opposition’s backline. His ability to get on the end of crosses and his aerial prowess make him a potent threat in the box – qualities that United have sorely lacked this season. While there have been some reservations about his technical ability and link-up play, Osimhen’s primary strength lies in his goal-scoring instincts and physical dominance.

Amorim’s system, which often employs two number tens and overlapping wing-backs, demands a striker who can occupy defenders and create opportunities for others. Osimhen’s presence would not only provide a focal point for United’s attack but also free up players like Bruno Fernandes and Mason Mount to operate in more advanced positions.

The Hojlund Conundrum: A Need for Reinforcements
United’s current striking options have struggled to deliver this season. Rasmus Hojlund, despite showing flashes of potential, has been inconsistent in front of goal, while Joshua Zirkzee has failed to make a significant impact since his arrival. The lack of a reliable goal-scorer has been a major hindrance for Amorim’s side, with United often lacking the cutting edge needed to break down stubborn defences.

Osimhen’s arrival would address this issue head-on. The 26-year-old is a proven goal-scorer at the highest level, having excelled in Serie A with Napoli and now in the Super Lig with Galatasaray. His experience, combined with his physical attributes, makes him an ideal candidate to lead United’s line and provide the firepower needed to compete for silverware.

Competition from PSG: Can United Win the Race?
While United’s interest in Osimhen is clear, they face stiff competition from PSG. The French champions, backed by seemingly limitless resources, are also in the market for a marquee striker and have reportedly made their own verbal offer to the Nigerian.

However, United’s new hierarchy under INEOS has shown a willingness to go all out for their primary targets. Whether it’s securing the services of a top-tier manager like Amorim or pursuing high-profile players, the club’s new owners have demonstrated a commitment to restoring United to their former glory. Osimhen, with his proven track record and suitability to Amorim’s system, could be the statement signing that signals United’s intent to compete at the highest level once again.

A New Era for United’s Attack?
Victor Osimhen’s potential arrival at Old Trafford would represent a significant step forward for Manchester United. His goal-scoring prowess, physicality, and experience make him an ideal fit for Ruben Amorim’s tactical vision, while his arrival would provide much-needed competition and depth in the striking department.

While the competition for his signature is fierce, United’s renewed ambition under INEOS could give them the edge in the race for Osimhen. If the Red Devils can secure his services, it would not only address a glaring weakness in the squad but also send a clear message to their rivals that United are serious about reclaiming their place among Europe’s elite.

For now, the verbal offer is a promising development, but the real test will be whether United can finalise the deal and bring Osimhen to the Theatre of Dreams. One thing is certain: his arrival would be a game-changer for Ruben Amorim and Manchester United.

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Transfers

€100 million Move: Arteta Worries As William Saliba Drops Transfer Hint

€100 million Move: Arteta Worries As William Saliba Drops Transfer Hint

William Saliba reportedly considers Real Madrid his “ultimate dream club”, with Arsenal valuing the 23-year-old French international at €100 million.

According to a report by Sacha Tavolieri on Sky Sport Switzerland, William Saliba is the subject of interest from Real Madrid.

The reigning La Liga champions have recently held talks with the Arsenal defensive mainstay’s representatives. Meanwhile, the French international considers Los Blancos as his “ultimate dream club”, with the North London club valuing him at €100 million.

William Saliba has established himself as one of the best defenders in the world since breaking into the first-team squad at Arsenal. The Frenchman did not immediately get the desired opportunities at the Emirates, with the North London club sending him out on three loan spells.

However, the 23-year-old has not looked back since establishing a foothold in the first-team squad at the Emirates. Saliba has turned out over 100 times thus far for Arsenal while chipping in with seven goals and two assists.

Meanwhile, the French international defender’s progress has not gone unnoticed, capturing the attention of several well-known clubs across Europe. Widespread reports have heavily linked Real Madrid with the former US Saint-Etienne centre-back, with the two parties recently holding tentative talks. Meanwhile, Arsenal will demand around €100 million to entertain parting ways with him.

Real Madrid’s interest in William Saliba is understandable. The reigning La Liga champions are desperately scouring the market for a centre-back heading into the summer transfer window after spending two seasons without most out-and-out central defenders. The crisis has deepened this term, with Antonio Rudiger, Eder Militao, and David Alaba currently on the sidelines.

In addition, Carlo Ancelotti does not trust Jesus Vallejo, who will likely depart from the Santiago Bernabeu after the 2024/25 season ends. So, Real Madrid must sign a centre-back in the summer transfer window, with Saliba emerging as a viable target. However, Arsenal’s asking price of around €100 million might pose a problem, considering the Merengues need reinforcement in several other departments.

Meanwhile, the French international views Real Madrid as his “ultimate dream club”, although he might not push for a departure from the Emirates anytime soon. In addition, widespread reports have claimed that Arsenal will block Real Madrid and other suitors from pursuing the 23-year-old Frenchman. So, a summer deal might not see the light of day.

 

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Transfers

Victor Osimhen Speaks On Botched Manchester United’s Deal

Victor Osimhen

Galatasaray loan striker, Victor Osimhen has opened up through his camp on rumored Manchester United move after a deal could not happen in the January transfer window.

Osimhen has been rumoured for a move to English Premier League side, but the Napoli striker who is currently on loan at Galatasaray believe he has more potential to give any club than moving from a cut pay.

According to a source close to the player, he said: “At his level, he can’t be moving to Manchester United and be earning less, he will rather go to Saudi Arabia and become a world highest earning player. No big deal about Manchester United and they need his image and characters to boost their profile at this moment,” a source told ThePapers.ng

“Victor is not in desperate move and he will never move to any club for pay cut, he will rather move to Saudi Arabia and earn over a state budget in Nigeria.”

“At the moment he’s very happy and will continue to be playing happily. You will mention Osimhen before Erling Haaland and others at the moment, so why will he move to take pay cut.”

Asking if Napoli would lower how price tag, he said: “Napoli will lose if they insist, let’s wait and see.” He concluded.

 

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