Arsenal are preparing for a busy end to the summer transfer window as Mikel Arteta looks to strengthen his Premier League title-winning squad. The Gunners have already completed two deals, but the focus is now on a marquee signing, with Julian Alvarez's future set to be decided after the World Cup.
Alvarez Future on Hold Until After World Cup
Argentina striker Julian Alvarez, a target for Arsenal, will not decide his club future until after the World Cup, according to Argentine publication La Nacion. The 26-year-old Atletico Madrid forward is fully focused on representing his nation, with Argentina set to face England in the semi-finals on Wednesday.
Arsenal are expected to intensify their pursuit once the tournament ends on July 19. However, Barcelona remain Alvarez's preferred destination, though they are struggling to agree a fee with Atletico, who point to his €500m (£426m) release clause. Argentine outlet Clarin Deportivo reports that Arsenal are "following every movement" and could step in if Barcelona fail.
Piero Hincapie and Ilan Meslier Arrive
Arsenal have already completed two deals this summer. Centre-back Piero Hincapie made his loan move permanent from Bayer Leverkusen for £34.5m. Goalkeeper Ilan Meslier also joined on a free transfer from Leeds United to serve as backup to David Raya.
These additions follow last summer's £250m spending spree, but Arteta is keen to land a blockbuster signing. The Gunners have been linked with Aston Villa's Morgan Rogers, Newcastle's Bruno Guimaraes, and Paris Saint-Germain's Bradley Barcola.
Leandro Trossard Departs for Besiktas
Leandro Trossard has left Arsenal after three-and-a-half years, joining Turkish side Besiktas for £17m. The 31-year-old Belgian forward flew to Istanbul for a medical after the clubs agreed a deal. Trossard scored 36 goals in 174 appearances for Arsenal since arriving from Brighton in January 2023, including a crucial late winner against West Ham in May that helped secure the title.
His departure is expected to free up space for a new left-wing attacker, with Rogers and Barcola among the names being considered.
