05 August 2023 , 03:00
1072
0
The first chance for Arsenal to lay down a marker for this Premier League season comes this weekend.
Mikel Arteta ’s Gunners have undoubtedly been boosted this summer with Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber having all been signed for a combined fee of more than £200 million. And the club aren't done in the transfer market yet, as they pursue Brentford keeper David Raya.
This Sunday, Arteta's men will renew acquaintances with Manchester City in the Community Shield at Wembley. They will face the champions without Gabriel Jesus though, who will miss the start of the new campaign with injury.
Take a look at all of the latest rumours coming out of the Emirates over the past 24 hours.
Raya deal close despite low offer
Arsenal are close to securing a deal for keeper David Raya despite their opening bid expected to be rejected.
Mikel Arteta's dream Arsenal line up as last-gasp January transfers are secured
The club have bid £20 million for the Brentford No 1, with a further £3 million pledged in add-ons. That is "slightly below" the valuation set by Thomas Frank and co, but according to The Athletic, both parties are still keen to finalise a move.
Raya’s potential move could depend on current Arsenal No 2 Matt Turner leaving the club. Nottingham Forest are in talks to recruit the 29-year-old United States international.
"Incredible" Timber is lauded by new teammate
Oleksandr Zinchenko has candidly said one of Arsenal's new stars is potentially "better than me" as the Gunners prepare for their Community Shield clash with Manchester City on Sunday.
Having impressed in pre-season, the Ukrainian said of the former Ajax man: "Maybe he is [similar], but maybe better than me. "I’m sure he is 100 per cent going to show us what he can do, and will really help us.
"I do know about him because I watched him and followed the way he played at Ajax. Also, I played against him for the national team so I know about him as a player, what amazing qualities he has, and now I know him off the pitch. He’s a great guy, another incredible signing for Arsenal who will help us a lot."
New signings Declan Rice and Jurrien Timber (Arsenal FC via Getty Images)Will Arsenal beat Man City to the Premier League this season? Share your thoughts in the comments below
Nantes want Arsenal star on loan
Marquinhos is wanted on loan by French side Nantes.
The 20-year-old Brazilian winger had a spell with Norwich in the Championship last season, but struggled to make an impact at Carrow Road. He scored just one goal and amassed only one assist in his 11 Championship appearances.
After arriving at the Emirates last summer, the youngster managed just one minute of Premier League football before he was sent away to get game time. And despite his mediocre second half of the season, Nantes are keen to add to their attacking options.
Arsenal lose eight players and sign three as January transfer window closes