Arsenal will compete with some of Europe's elite teams in the transfer market this summer for the first time since Arsene Wenger's reign. The Gunners' return to the Champions League, alongside Mikel Arteta's project, makes them an attractive location for many players.
The period away from Europe's greatest stage means the north Londoners are playing catch-up to the likes of Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, Manchester City and Liverpool.
Following the blueprint set by Jurgen Klopp's side in the transfer market would be a smart choice by Arsenal. The Reds have transformed themselves as one of England and Europe's most consistent performers in recent years, with the signings of Mohamed Salah, Alisson, Virgil van Dijk and Fabinho playing starring roles.
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This season, Liverpool lost grip on their nail-biting rivalry with Man City - with Arsenal replacing them - and finished outside the Champions League places. As is the case with Arteta's side, Klopp faces a summer like no other in ensuring the Merseyside outfit make an immediate jump back at the pinnacle of football.
And like Arsenal, midfield is the priority at Anfield. Jude Bellingham's imminent move to Real Madrid means Liverpool will target cheaper alternatives in hope of significantly bolstering Klopp's midfield. Brighton's Alexis Mac Allister is destined for a move to the club, but more could follow and Arsenal may be impacted.
Mason Mount is a player who has been linked with a move to both clubs amid severe uncertainty over his future at Chelsea. The midfielder's current contract expires in 2024 but is likely to be sold this summer to ensure the club earns some sort of transfer fee.
Whilst there's no clear indication of where Mount will end up, Liverpool have already started their move to land the right targets by appointing a new sporting director. The club confirmed on Tuesday that Jorg Schmadtke had joined the club, replacing Julian Ward.
It's said that the German’s "wealth of knowledge and experience" was key to Liverpool's decision. Foundations will be prepared between Schmadtke and Ward ahead of the opening of the transfer window, with the ultimate goal being to satisfy Klopp's need of signings.
The former Wolfsburg executive's arrival at Anfield could play a major role in whether Arsenal attempt to bring Mount to the Emirates Stadium. Declan Rice is the Gunners' priority and its expected focus will remain on the West Ham star for the foreseeable, leaving Liverpool with the opportunity to land Mount.
Schmadtke's appointment is, for now, only a short-term one. However, should his actions over the course of the summer transfer window tick the boxes on Merseyside, there's no reason why he won't be handed additional reigns further down the line.
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