The transfer stories regarding Arsenal show a vast difference today, with the two main stories of note including one £30m defender and the other involving an 11-year-old currently signed to a League Two club.
It can only be the FreshArsenal gossip round-up, hold onto your Wembley flags…
Manchester United Enter Laporte Race (Mirror)
Manchester United are searching for alternative targets to Borussia Dortmund’s Mats Hummels and have identified Aymeric Laporte as a potential recruit, rivalling Arsenal and Chelsea to the French international’s signature.
Laporte, who’s contract with Athletic Bilbao is said to include a release clause of £30m, is expected to be on the move this summer to a Champions League club- and the Premier League is a heavily reported destination.
Whilst I’d be surprised to see Arsenal sign a centre-back this summer given the January addition of Gabriel Paulista, and the price- added to the fact Athletic are shrewd negotiators, Arsenal must enter the race for the 20-year-old star.
Arsenal Leading Chase For 11-Year-Old Luton Town Wonderkid (Mail)
Arsenal are leading the chase for Luton Town’s 11-year-old wonder kid Charlie Patino, who is likened to be the next ‘Jack Wilshere’- and he would cost the Gunners just £10,000 in compensation.
Some of the Premier League’s biggest clubs are chasing the player, including Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Manchester United. However, reports state it’s the Gunners that are set to secure the talented boy- who’s parents originate from Spain.
Arsenal’s eye for young talent has always been sharp, especially in recent years, so seeing a highly-regarded player signed up is always a benefit for the future.
Cech Edging Closer To Transfer Decision (Mirror)
Chelsea goalkeeper Petr Cech is edging closer to a decision regarding his next club, with his choices said to be Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.
Reports state Cech prefers a move across London but his advisors want him to secure a move to Ligue 1, with the French outfit prepared to match any offer the Gunners lodge. However, reports linking them with a move for Tottenham’s Hugo Lloris suggest differently.
£10m is the mentioned asking price for the Blues stopper, who has served the West London outfit for 11 years in one of the most successful eras for the club.