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Arsenal decide ‘No.1 transfer target’ for summer but it’s not Alexander Isak

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Arsenal decide 'No.1 transfer target' for summer but it's not Alexander Isak

Arsenal are preparing for a crucial summer transfer window, with their focus firmly set on securing a new centre-forward. Reports indicate that RB Leipzig’s Benjamin Sesko has emerged as the Gunners’ No. 1 target, overtaking other high-profile strikers, including Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak.

Isak Move Unlikely Due to Hefty Price Tag

Alexander Isak has been on Arsenal’s radar for some time, and his recent performances, particularly against William Saliba and Gabriel in the Carabao Cup, have only strengthened the belief that he could be a perfect fit for Mikel Arteta’s side.

However, Newcastle United are reportedly holding firm on their valuation of the Swedish forward, setting a staggering £150 million price tag on him. Given Arsenal’s financial considerations, such a hefty fee makes a move for Isak highly improbable.

Instead of pursuing an overpriced deal, Arsenal have turned their attention back to Sesko, a player they had initially considered last summer before he opted to stay at RB Leipzig for another season.

Benjamin Sesko: The Missing Piece in Arteta’s Attack

Arsenal’s need for a reliable centre-forward has become increasingly apparent this season. While Kai Havertz and Gabriel Jesus have been deployed in the striker role, neither has managed to deliver a consistent goal output.

Havertz, primarily an attacking midfielder, has struggled with the physical demands of playing as a lone striker, while Jesus has suffered multiple injury setbacks, including a long-term ACL injury that could keep him sidelined for months.

Sesko, a 21-year-old Slovenian forward, has been in impressive form for RB Leipzig this season, netting 14 goals in 29 appearances across all competitions. His pace, strength, and finishing ability make him an ideal candidate to lead Arsenal’s attack in the coming seasons.

Arteta’s Frustration Over January Window

The failure to bring in reinforcements during the January transfer window has left Arteta disappointed. With injuries piling up, including a hamstring issue sidelining Bukayo Saka until March, the squad’s depth has been tested.

The Arsenal boss openly admitted that the club had clear intentions of strengthening the squad but ultimately fell short.

“We had a clear intention which is always when a window opens to explore the opportunities to improve our squad with players that can make an impact,” Arteta said following the closure of the January transfer window.

“With players injured, we’ve been impacted and we haven’t achieved it. We are disappointed in that sense but as well we are very aware that we only want to bring certain kinds of players and we have to be very disciplined with that as well. I think that we were.”

Summer Spending Strategy and Sesko’s Potential Arrival

Arsenal have been mindful of their spending in recent transfer windows, balancing financial responsibility with their ambitions of challenging for major trophies.

Last summer, the club invested £75 million in Riccardo Calafiori and Mikel Merino, while also securing a loan deal for Raheem Sterling from Chelsea.

However, their long-term plan has always been to secure a top-class striker, and the failure to land Sesko in 2023 has only heightened their determination to sign him in 2024.

Sesko recently signed a new contract with RB Leipzig until 2029, but Arsenal remain confident that they can negotiate a deal to bring him to the Emirates Stadium. His ability to play across the front line offers Arteta tactical flexibility, a trait that could make him an invaluable asset in the upcoming seasons.

Arsenal’s Striker Hunt Intensifies

As Arsenal prepare for the 2024-25 campaign, securing a prolific goalscorer remains their top priority. While Alexander Isak may have been a dream signing, financial constraints make Benjamin Sesko the more realistic and practical option.

If Arsenal can successfully land the young Slovenian, he could very well be the missing piece in their attack, helping the Gunners take another step towards Premier League and European glory.

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Will Kolo Muani Stay at Juventus or Move to the Premier League?

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Will Kolo Muani Stay at Juventus or Move to the Premier League?

The future of French forward Kolo Muani is one of the most intriguing storylines heading into the summer transfer window.

Currently on loan at Juventus from Paris Saint-Germain (PSG), Muani has struggled to find consistent form, sparking speculation about where he’ll play next season.

With Juventus, PSG, and Premier League clubs all weighing their options, the 25-year-old’s next move remains uncertain.

Juventus’ Dilemma: To Keep or Let Go?

Juventus are in a period of transition, with both managerial and squad uncertainties shaping their summer plans.

The club’s qualification for the Champions League could play a key role in their decision-making. If they secure a top-four finish, they may push to retain Muani, but his recent dip in form has raised doubts.

As Calciomercato reports, “The Frenchman hasn’t scored for a month, he has stopped and shows no signs of recovery.”

Despite this, Juventus’ sporting director sees Muani as a “top-level profile” and is reportedly keen to secure another loan deal.

However, PSG have different plans. The French giants are looking to sell Muani outright to maximize their financial return, rather than extending his stay in Turin.

PSG’s Stance: A Sale, Not a Loan

PSG’s position is clear they want to cash in on Muani and reinvest in their squad. The club’s summer plans include a major overhaul of their attack, and Muani’s sale could help fund new signings.

As Calciomercato notes, “The ambition of the French is to immediately sell the striker and not necessarily to Juve, to whom the player was kindly loaned with a very clear aim. That of re-evaluating him and putting him on display for next summer.”

Muani’s time at Juventus has been a mixed bag. While he’s enjoyed regular playing time, he hasn’t rediscovered the form that made him one of Europe’s most promising forwards.

If he is to stay in Turin, it will likely depend on Juventus securing Champions League football and presenting a strong long-term project.

Premier League Interest: Newcastle in the Mix

The Premier League could be a viable destination for Muani, with Newcastle United emerging as a potential suitor.

The Magpies’ potential sale of Alexander Isak could create an opening for Muani to fill. As the report highlights, “Kolo Muani has a lot of market in the Premier League, above all Newcastle who can open the waltz of the strikers, with the fate of Isak yet to be discovered.”

Muani’s pace and versatility make him an attractive option for English clubs, but his inconsistent form raises questions about whether he can command a starting role at a top Premier League side.

Newcastle fans might view him as an exciting addition, but his lack of goals could be a concern, especially if Isak departs.

The debate surrounding Muani centers on whether he’s worth a long-term investment. His speed and movement offer something unique, but his recent struggles in front of goal are a red flag.

For Juventus, pairing him with a proven finisher like Victor Osimhen could be the solution, but the club may also consider a complete overhaul of their attack.

For Newcastle, Muani’s physicality and ability to stretch defences could fit well into Eddie Howe’s system.

However, fans might prefer a more established striker if Isak leaves. Ultimately, Muani’s performances in the final months of the season could determine his next destination.

As the summer transfer window approaches, Kolo Muani’s future remains up in the air. Will he stay at Juventus, return to PSG, or make a move to the Premier League?

His next destination will depend on a combination of form, finances, and the ambitions of the clubs involved. One thing is certain Muani’s transfer saga will be one to watch.

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Barcelona pushing for €85m-rated forward’s transfer as Deco lays the groundwork

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Barcelona pushing for €85m-rated forward’s transfer as Deco lays the groundwork

According to a report from SPORT, Barcelona’s sporting director, Deco, has begun laying the groundwork for a possible move to sign Liverpool winger Luis Diaz.

The club is actively working on financial plans and calculations to determine how they can afford the transfer.

However, securing Diaz won’t be easy, as Barcelona must first generate significant funds before making an official approach.

Challenges Ahead
The estimated cost of signing the Colombian star is between €70-75 million, meaning Barcelona need to free up at least €30 million in their wage structure to make the deal viable.

To raise the necessary funds, the club is exploring various options, including player sales and percentage deals involving players not currently in the first-team setup.

Barcelona’s midfield is one area where they could consider a major sale if the right offer comes in. While the squad has plenty of midfield options, only Pedri is considered untouchable.

In defense, the club is being cautious about making changes, but the futures of Eric Garcia, Andreas Christensen, and Ronald Araujo remain uncertain. Araujo, in particular, would only be allowed to leave if he personally requests a transfer.

Diaz’s Interest in Barcelona
On Diaz’s side, the player is reportedly keen on joining Barcelona. After spending four seasons in England, he is excited about the possibility of playing for the Blaugrana.

Deco has already held informal talks with Diaz’s representatives to express Barcelona’s interest.

However, due to financial restrictions under La Liga’s fair play rules, the club cannot make any formal moves at this stage.

One potential advantage for Barcelona is Diaz’s contract situation. His current deal with Liverpool runs until 2027, but by 2026, the English club’s leverage in negotiations would diminish. If Liverpool don’t sell him next summer, they risk losing out on a significant transfer fee the following year.

That said, if Barcelona fail to show serious interest, Diaz might consider extending his stay at Anfield instead.

While Barcelona are keen on bringing Diaz to Camp Nou, financial hurdles and strategic planning will play a crucial role in determining whether the transfer materializes.

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Pep Guardiola explains why he hauled off Man City star just 18 minutes after coming on

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Pep Guardiola explains why he hauled off Man City star just 18 minutes after coming on
Abdukodir Khusanov's own goal ensured the spoils were shared

Manchester City missed a golden opportunity to climb back into the Premier League’s top four after being held to a 2-2 draw against Brighton & Hove Albion at the Etihad Stadium.

However, the game took an unexpected turn when Bernardo Silva, who had only been on the pitch for 18 minutes, was substituted for Phil Foden a decision that left fans and pundits scratching their heads.

Guardiola’s Cryptic Response on Silva’s Early Exit

Silva, who came on shortly before the hour mark, showed no visible signs of injury when he was withdrawn.

When asked about the sudden change, Pep Guardiola offered little clarity in his post-match interview.

“I don’t know, I didn’t speak to the doctors,” Guardiola told Match of the Day when questioned about a potential injury. “Bernardo is so strong.”

With no conclusive explanation, speculation continues regarding whether the substitution was tactical, fitness-related, or due to a minor issue unnoticed by spectators.

City Let Crucial Points Slip

Going into the match, Manchester City knew a victory would push them back into the top four. They started well, with Erling Haaland converting a penalty to give them the lead.

However, Brighton hit back through Pervis Estupiñán, leveling the score. Omar Marmoush then restored City’s advantage, only for an unfortunate Abdukodir Khusanov own goal to secure a draw for the visitors.

Despite the result, Guardiola remained positive about his team’s performance:

“It was a good game. A tight game—I know how difficult this process is. The players gave everything. We take the point and keep going.”

He also praised his squad’s effort, particularly the younger players and defenders, but admitted City fell just short of securing the win.

Brighton’s Boss Disappointed Despite Strong Performance

Brighton, aiming to complete a league double over City after their 2-1 win at the Amex in November, were left frustrated by the draw. Manager Fabian Hürzeler believed his side deserved more:

“We gave away goals in a very cheap way, and we have to improve. The fact that we came back twice and had big opportunities to win is a positive sign. We showed our identity—that’s how we want to play.”

Despite acknowledging the team’s strong display, Hürzeler was dissatisfied with the final result:

“It is very clear to me that we should have left this pitch as winners. Sometimes football is like this.”

Chelsea Benefit as City Drop Points

The draw at the Etihad Stadium ensures that Chelsea will finish the weekend in fourth place. Meanwhile, Nottingham Forest remains in third after their 4-2 win over Ipswich, meaning Arsenal’s clash with Chelsea on Sunday won’t affect their position just yet.

As City continues to navigate a competitive season, questions remain about Guardiola’s Bernardo Silva decision, but for now, their focus will be on bouncing back in their next fixture.




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