Wilfried Zaha dances next to message teasing Arsenal transfer
Arsenal have launched a player-plus-cash transfer offer for a Portuguese youngster dubbed the ‘next Cristiano Ronaldo’, according to reports. They will, however, face competition from Borussia Dortmund and Juventus for Joelson Fernandes.
Arsenal boss Mikel Arteta is starting to form his ideal squad at The Emirates.
The Gunners have been linked with multiple names this summer, and are expected to offload as many as nine first-team players.
AlexandreLacazette, MatteoGuendouzi, Henrikh Mkhitaryan, Callum Chambers and MohamedElnenyare all tipped to leave if acceptable offers are made.
And they are keen to start buying as soon as possible, with reports claiming they are set to launch a player-plus-cash bid to sign Fernandes from Sporting Lisbon.
Arsenal transfer news: Gunners to launch huge bid for 'next Cristiano Ronaldo' (Image: GETTY)
The Daily Star claims the Gunners are keen to avoid paying Fernandes’ £40million release clause, and are going to try and tempt the Portuguese side into letting him go for less.
Fernandes has been offered a new contract in an attempt to fend off any interest from other European teams, but Arsenal could have a secret weapon in negotiations.
The 17-year-old, who has been compared to a young Ronaldo, is represented by Kai Joorabchian, the super-agent with a strong relationship with the Emirates side.
Joorabchianis said to be determined to get his client a move to north London, and is therefore holding off on negotiating an extension.
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And Willian is said to be already close to signing a three-year contract at The Emirates, after leaving Chelsea this week.
The 32-year-old penned an emotional letter to Blues fans after turning down the chance to stay at Stamford Bridge.
Willian was offered a two-year contract by Chelsea, but is determined to hold out for a three-year deal instead.
Arsenal are expected to move for Atletico Madrid midfielder ThomasParteyafter they secure Willian’s arrival.
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