Arsenal's summer transfer window continues to take shape and it has been a thrilling one for Gunners fans despite the fact no signing has actually been made just yet.
Mikel Arteta is a man on a mission, spurred on by the heartache of last term's title capitulation, the Arsenal manager is gunning for proven Premier League talent in terms of his targets this window. By now, it is crystal clear that West Ham United captain Declan Rice remains the priority signing over at the Emirates, but other big-name additions are expected.
With that in mind, Mirror Football has identified and analysed some of the main transfer talking points emerging out of the red half of north London.
Second Rice bid sent
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Arsenal have now submitted their second offer for Rice and it is thought to be worth a club-record £90million plus add-ons which could see the overall figure rise to just shy of £100m.
The general consensus is that Rice has made clear he only wants Arsenal and expects to be a Gunner by the time he returns from his holiday.
Personal terms are not thought to be an issue and all that is left for the two teams to do reach an agreement over a fee.
The Hammers have already started their search for a replacement, which suggests they are resigned to losing Rice this window.
Lavia deal close
Talks between Arsenal and Southampton over the potential sale of Belgium international Romeo Lavia are thought to be progressing well as the Gunners continue to bolster their midfield before the start of the new season.
The Saints are hoping to pocket the most they have ever received for a player under the age of 21, though there are no guarantees that the fee will come from Arsenal given a number of Premier League giants are keeping tabs on the teenager.
Both Manchester United and Chelsea have registered an interest in Lavia, once of reigning champions Manchester City, but it is believed that much like with Rice - Arsenal are in pole position.
Arsenal get the lowdown on Timber from Ten Hag
Arsenal have also emerged as surprise suitors for Ajax defender Jurrien Timber, probably much to the frustration of those at the top of the Manchester United hierarchy.
The Red Devils have long been linked with the Netherlands international, who played under United boss Ten Hag when he was at the Ajax helm.
That's exactly how Ten Hag is aware of Timber's qualities, which he has previously laid bare while talking to the media.
"He (Timber) could even play at left-back or in central midfield," the United manager explained.
"He will not immediately be the leader of the Ajax first team, but he dares to speak out immediately and has not been shy in the dressing room. Those are important qualities to get far."
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