Arsenal linked with in-demand £26m Champions League star as Mikel Arteta ‘weighs up’ signing free agent

Arsenal return to action this week after more than a week off.

Last weekend’s Premier League action was postponed, and the Gunners also saw their Europa League clash with PSV pushed back this week.

But Mikel Arteta’s men will have one more outing ahead of the international break, with this weekend’s clash with Brentford to go ahead.

Arsenal will likely need to win that one if they want to keep hold of top spot heading into the break.

And as the Gunners put the final touches on their preparations, we have rounded up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding the Emirates Stadium.

Mudryk links

Arsenal have been backed to make a move for sought-after Shakhtar Donetsk talent Mykhaylo Mudryk.

Fabrizio Romano has said on the Que Golazo podcast: “I think in the future there is a chance for Arsenal, but not only Arsenal. In August, they had some conversations with the agents of Mudryk.

“But then, when they knew about the price tag, way more than €30m (£26m), they decided not to bid. There are many clubs in the race [to sign him].

“When I was speaking to my sources during the summer about Mudryk with clubs around Europe, they told me from Shakhtar, they really think this guy is worth way more than €30m.”

Xeka interest

Arsenal are said to be considering a move for former OGC Nice star Xeka.

According to 90min, the Gunners are considering a move for the 27-year-old in a bid to add depth to their midfield.

Arsenal made a move for Aston Villa’s Douglas Luiz late in the window, but they couldn’t pull off a deal.

There are now question marks over the depth Arteta has at his disposal in midfield, and Xeka, who is a free agent, could be an option.

Xeka and Xhaka could be fun for the commentators should the deal go ahead...