Arsenal are reportedly closing in on a deal for highly-rated Blackburn Rovers striker Igor Tyjon, alongside two other young signings, as the club looks to strengthen before the transfer deadline on September 1.
Mikel Arteta is determined to help the club retain the Premier League title, having guided the Gunners to their first league success in 22 years. Arsenal are recruiting from a position of considerable strength, having landed former Newcastle United captain Bruno Guimaraes in midfield and strengthened their wide options by securing Christos Tzolis and now England centre-back Ezri Konsa from Aston Villa.
Julian Alvarez transfer update emerges
Atletico Madrid have reportedly softened their stance on the prospect of Julian Alvarez departing the club. The Argentine striker has been connected with a move to Arsenal, who are alleged to have conducted discussions in London with Atleti director Mateu Alemany to explore a possible deal.
Spanish publication Mundo Deportivo claims that Atleti have "agreed" to commence talks with Arsenal regarding a transfer for Alvarez, signalling a change in the club's position. However, it is noted that the La Liga outfit have been "very clear" about their reluctance to conduct business.
Alvarez has openly expressed his wish to depart Atleti but is said to be "not keen" on a switch to Arsenal, despite the club's altered approach, and remains focused on Barcelona. With Atletico Madrid having limited time to find a replacement, Arsenal's Viktor Gyokeres has been floated as a potential target. Meanwhile, Alvarez's predicament is described as "untenable", with the former Manchester City ace declining to return to the Premier League.
Arsenal 'closing in' on trio
Arsenal are said to be edging towards a deal for Tyjon, the 18-year-old forward who is amongst three promising youngsters reportedly set to join the club, reports Football London. The Evening Standard claims that Arteta's team are finalising a move for Tyjon, involving an upfront fee of £1million plus a further £2m in possible add-ons.
The teenager, who had a medical scheduled for Friday, has been a long-standing Arsenal target. Tyjon has reportedly rejected a professional deal at Blackburn and is poised to join Arsenal's U21 setup, while also training with Arteta's first-team squad. Two Manchester United youngsters could join the talented striker in his move.
The Evening Standard reports that United defender Habeeb Ogunneye, 20, has completed a medical before linking up with Arsenal's U21s and training with the senior side. United winger James Scanlon is also nearing a transfer to the Gunners from Old Trafford.
