Arsenal are unlikely to make bids for Leeds winger Raphinha and Leicester’s Youri Tielemans unless players leave the Emirates first, according to The Athletic‘s David Ornstein.
The trusted journalist believes that the likes of Nicolas Pepe and Granit Xhaka may have to be sold to free up space in the squad before more signings are made:
🚨 Arsenal defensive priority this window is Lisandro Martinez. Wanted for ability to play LCB / LB + 24yo Argentina international said to be keen. Sources indicate ~€30m bid already rejected by #Ajax but #AFC will keep pushing. That & more @TheAthleticUK https://t.co/OxgBbdOOAo
— David Ornstein (@David_Ornstein) June 17, 2022
Raphinha’s asking price is believed to be €55m (£47m) while Tielemans could be available for £25m but it appears that their transfer fees will have to be offset by potential outgoings.
Pepe is up for sale, but so far there have been no takers, despite the fact that he will be sold for a knockdown price this summer. The situation with Xhaka is slightly different.
The Swiss international has been close to leaving on more than one occasion over the last two years but a lot will depend on where he sees his future. Roma made a move for him last year and there is a possibility that Jose Mourinho’s side could consider making another approach for the player.