As Arsenal look ahead to the 2023-24 season, midfield appears to be the main focus for Mikel Arteta's side.
The Gunners' interest in Declan Rice has been well-documented, with the England midfielder's current club West Ham turning down an initial deal from Mikel Arteta's side. Ilkay Gundogan is also on the club's radar, with the Manchester City man out of contract this summer, but the German has yet to decide on his next move.
With Granit Xhaka expected to move on, and Thomas Partey also attracting interest, there could be plenty of movement in North London. Here, Mirror Football runs through some of the latest lines.
Lavia advantage
Arsenal's relationship with Romeo Lavia's agent could give them the upper hand over Chelsea, according to RMC Sport. The Southampton midfielder is represented by Emeka Obasi, who also represents Gunners pair Bukayo Saka and Eddie Nketiah.
Lavia joined Southampton from Manchester City last summer, but could leave St Mary's following the team's relegation. Pep Guardiola's side have a buy-back clause, but this is understood to only come into force in 2024.
"We thought to keep him, but maybe he would not [get] enough minutes like he has in Southampton," City boss Pep Guardiola said in April. "[It's a] good experience to go to the Premier League and play at this early age. So important."
Smith Rowe to stay
Can Emile Smith Rowe get back to his best? Have your say in the comments section
Emile Smith Rowe will not leave Arsenal this summer, despite a difficult 12 months in North London. The academy talent struggled for minutes after returning from injury, failing to break back into the side in the second half of the season.
"I just want to be on the pitch," the England international told the Times. "This was the hardest season of my career. It was tough, but we were in a title race and I understand the manager isn't going to change the team if we're winning every game.
"Arsenal are my club and I'm not going to give up until [Arteta] says he doesn't want me," the 22-year-old added. "But that's not the case. He wants me as part of the team and I want to fight for my place and get back in the team."
Neves on the move
While Arsenal remain likely to add midfield reinforcements, it looks as though Ruben Neves won't be the solution. The Wolves midfielder has long been linked with a Gunners switch, but now looks set to join Al-Hilal of the Saudi Pro League.
Barcelona have also been interested in the Portugal international, who joined Wolves in 2017. Instead, though, Riyadh-based Al-Hilal appear set to pounce.
According to Relevo, Neves will set the Saudi side back £47m, with the midfielder set for a huge salary increase. The 26-year-old would join international colleague Cristiano Ronaldo in Saudi Arabia, with the veteran on the books of Al-Nassr.
