Arsenal ‘close’ to agreeing ‘bumper deal’ for star player as £80m man ‘very keen’

The summer transfer window might be a long way away but clubs across the country are already making plans, trying to tie down key players on new deals and targeting potential signings.

There’s very little talk of transfer windows at Arsenal right now though as Mikel Arteta’s side are preparing for a huge night at the Emirates Stadium with Man City visiting for the battle of the sides siting first and second in the Premier League. However, there is still plenty going on behind the scenes with positive news coming out regarding a key Gunners star and rumored links to a £80 million valued striker. Here are the latest Arsenal transfer news stories on Wednesday, February 15:

Bukayo Saka ‘close’ to agreeing ‘bumper’ Arsenal deal

A report from Football Insider claims that Arsenal are confident of securing a full agreement with Bukayo Saka over a new contract soon. The England star’s contract is said to be a ‘priority’ to the club and it is said that they belives a breakthrough is imminent. The report claims that the Gunners are offering Saka a ‘huge pay rise’ that will bring his terms in line with the club’s top earners like Thomas Partey and Gabriel Jesus.

Other positive news from the report is that, although other top clubs are believed to be monitoring the situation. A move away from Arsenal is described as ‘extremley low’. It is said that any club aiming to sign Saka would need to pay around £100 million for his services at this time.

Arsenal ‘reignite interest’ in £80 million striker

Another report from Football Insider claims that Arsenal have reignited their interest in Inter Milan striker Lautaro Martinez ahead of the summer window. It is claimed the Gunners want to strengthen their attacking options following the injury sustained by Gabriel Jesus this season and could capitalise on reported financial issues at the Serie A giants to snap up the 25-year old Argentinian.

The Gunners are said to have an ‘active interest’ in the player but would have to fork out a fee of around £70 million to £80 million for his services as he still has three years remaining on his current deal. Other positive signs from the report claim that Martinez would be very keen on a potential move to Arsenal or another English side.