Arsenal are plotting how best to continue their remarkable transformation into trophy contenders, having emerged as Manchester City's closest challengers.
Their best way to do so is to reinforce their squad in this summer's transfer window, with boss Mikel Arteta eyeing several targets. One of them is Joao Cancelo, with the Portuguese fullback set to be allowed to depart City permanently this summer.
Elsewhere, Gunners keeper Matt Turner has dropped a heavy hint that Florian Balogun will remain at the Emirates Stadium and Jose Mourinho began attempts to ruin Arteta's carefully laid plans. Here, Mirror Football rounds up the latest Arsenal news.
Arsenal plot Cancelo move
Arsenal are mounting a surprise bid to sign Joao Cancelo from Manchester City after the fullback returned to the Etihad Stadium. Cancelo fell out with boss Pep Guardiola, leading to a January loan move to Bayern Munich.
He is unlikely to return to the Bundesliga champions permanently though, with City ready to sell him this summer. According to Sky Sports, Arsenal have entered the race for the 29-year-old.
It is said that the Gunners have engaged in 'early verbal talks' to sign the fullback from the Premier League champions. They may face an obstacle though, with Cancelo himself keen to move to LaLiga.
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Balogun back for Gunners stay
Florian Balogun has been backed to stay at Arsenal amid rumours he could depart this summer. Balogun enjoyed a successful loan at Reims in the season just gone, but Gunners back-up keeper Matt Turner believes he will become a key member of Mikel Arteta's squad.
"It’s someone to be excited about and I think that knowing his personality, he’ll fit in well with the group. Flo is a really talented player that’s going to bring a fiery edge to the group," Turner said.
"He’s a super competitive guy and that fits in well with the people we have in this locker room already. Again, he’s going to be a great addition and creates more competition at that No 9 spot and when you have competition like that it elevates everyone else’s game."
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Mourinho out to ruin Arsenal plans
Jose Mourinho is set to ruin Arsenal's summer transfer plans as he bids to mount a move for Youri Tielemans. The Belgian has left Leicester after his contract ended, with the Foxes relegated from the Premier League.
Tielemans has been a long-time target of Arsenal's, with the Gunners frequently exploring attempts to buy him. A free transfer this summer could offer them the best chance to finally complete that move.
But Mourinho is keen to bring the Belgian to Roma, if he decides to stay in charge of the Serie A side. Roma have made contact with Tielemans' representatives, though the midfielder is hoping for offers from Premier League clubs.
