Arsenal dealt huge transfer blow

The transfer window officially opens on Friday, and Arsenal are likely to be busy in the market. 

The Gunners have finished as runners-up in the Premier League twice in a row, on both occasions missing out to Manchester City.

Manager Mikel Arteta has seen his side establish significant leads at the top of the table during each of the past two seasons, before eventually being overtaken by the Citizens.

The Spaniard will be desperate to see his side go one better next term, and he will therefore be keen to bolster his squad during the coming weeks.

It appears, though, that Arsenal have been dealt a huge blow in their pursuit of a Serie A striker.

As per Relevo via 90min, AC Milan have moved early and informed Bologna that they are prepared to meet Joshua Zirkzee’s release clause.

The Bologna forward has attracted attention from the Gunners in recent months, but fellow Serie A side Milan are reportedly hoping to sign the striker.

Zirkzee, 23, joined Bologna from german giants Bayern Munich in 2022 and has since made 58 appearances for his current side, scoring 14 goals and providing nine assists.

The player’s current contract, which s set to run until the summer of 2026, includes a £34 million release clause which Milan are prepared to activate.

It is also claimed that the player himself is keen to stay put in Italy, giving Milan confidence that they will be able to agree a deal for the striker.

Arsenal’s search for a new forward has prompted the club to draw up a list of potential targets, which also features RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko.

The Slovenia international is also a target for Premier League rivals Manchester United and Chelsea, which could force the Gunners to look elsewhere.