Kimmich and Calafiori sign, Gyokeres deal – Dream Arsenal lineup after £162m transfers – We’re surely winning the premier League next season
Arsenal completed their first summer transfer on Thursday, with more player movements expected in the upcoming weeks. David Raya made his permanent move to Emirates Stadium after a successful loan spell last season. The Gunners activated the £27 million purchase option included in last summer’s negotiations with Brentford. football.london reports that Raya won’t be the only new arrival, as Edu and Mikel Arteta are eager to strengthen other areas of the squad.
Significant interest is reported in Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori. The 22-year-old centre-back, who also plays left-back, impressed in Serie A last season, helping Bologna qualify for the Champions League. His performances for Italy at Euro 2024 further convinced Arteta that Calafiori is a suitable addition. Arsenal faces competition from Chelsea, but the North London club is in a strong position to secure his signature, given their ability to offer Champions League football and a potential Premier League title challenge. Bologna has set a €50 million (£42.5 million) asking price for Calafiori, which seems reasonable for his age and potential. If signed, Calafiori could slot in at left-back, given the uncertainty around Oleksandr Zinchenko and Jakub Kiwior, while also providing cover for Gabriel at centre-back.
Arteta is also looking to sign a central midfielder this summer. While Declan Rice and Martin Odegaard were regular starters last season, the third midfield spot was rotated among Jorginho, Thomas Partey, Fabio Vieira, and Emile Smith Rowe. An upgrade is seen as necessary. One potential fit is Joshua Kimmich from Bayern Munich. Linked with a move away from Bayern, Kimmich’s contract expires next year. He brings versatility, quality, and experience, capable of playing as a defensive midfielder or right-back. His presence would allow Rice to play more frequently as a left-sided No. 8. Kimmich, currently with Germany at Euro 2024, might be available for around €40 million (£33.9 million) if Bayern decides to sell. He has expressed uncertainty about his future, focusing on the European Championship before any discussions.
Additionally, Arsenal is in the market for a forward. Benjamin Sesko was initially of interest but has extended his contract at RB Leipzig. Other linked names include Nico Williams, Johan Bakayoko, and Alexander Isak. Another striker under consideration is Viktor Gyokeres. The 26-year-old impressed at Sporting CP last season, scoring 43 goals and assisting 15 in 50 appearances. Having joined Sporting last summer from Coventry, Gyokeres brings some English football experience. Arsenal would need to meet his €100 million (£85.7 million) release clause to secure his transfer. If signed, Gyokeres would likely lead Arsenal’s attack for the 2024/25 season, flanked by Bukayo Saka and either Gabriel Martinelli or Leandro Trossard.
A potential Arsenal lineup after the summer transfer window could feature: Raya; White, Saliba, Gabriel, Calafiori; Kimmich, Rice, Odegaard; Saka, Gyokeres, Martinelli.