Arsenal have ‘agreement’ with priority target after ‘entering race’ to land Leeds United star

Arsenal will now be putting the final touches on their summer plans ahead of Mikel Arteta getting away for what will surely be much needed time away on holiday.

Despite falling short of the Premier League title, the Gunners enjoyed a fine campaign, outperforming almost everyone’s expectations coming into this season. But expectations will rise as a consequence, and Arsenal will be expected to be in the title race again next season, while they will also need to put together a better run in Europe as they step up to the Champions League.

In the meantime, we have rounded up all the latest news surrounding the Emirates Stadium.

Rice ‘agreement’

Arsenal have already made headway in their reported bid to land West Ham United captain Declan Rice this summer, according to journalist Luke Edwards.

“Arsenal are supposedly, and have been quite like Real Madrid with Bellingham, they’ve supposedly got this deal verbally agreed with somebody that he’ll come to Arsenal.

“But West Ham are being sensible, they realise he won’t sign a new contract and they’re tyring to maximise what they will get for him and I’ve heard them looking for as much as £150m for him.”

Gnonto interest

Elsewhere, the Gunners are said to be interested in Leeds United star Wilfried Gnonto.

The young Italy international was one of few bright sparks at Elland Road after arriving in last summer, and he could be snatched up as he looks to avoid Championship football and remain in conversation for the Italy squad. According to Calcio Mercato, Arsenal are interested in pulling off a move, but they are not alone.

Manchester City have also been linked, with Leeds likely to make a quick profit on Gnonto due to his performances this season, despite the fact their negotiating position has been weakened by their relegation.