Arsenal 'make contact' with Man Utd target as London rivals express 'concern' over sporting director move

Arsenal are preparing for another huge clash as they bid to return to the fore of the Premier League title race. The Gunners are currently seven points behind leaders Liverpool and currently in fifth place after a disappointing run that continued in the Champions League during the week.

Mikel Arteta and his men will know their margin for error is getting smaller, and they face a big test against an in-form Chelsea side this weekend. In the meantime, we have rounded up all the latest news and transfer rumours surrounding the Emirates Stadium.

Quenda interest

Arsenal are said to have made contact over a possible deal for reported Manchester United target Geovany Quenda. Manchester City and Liverpool have also been linked with the Sporting CP star, who is currently managed by incoming United boss Ruben Amorim.

The 17-year-old broke into Sporting’s first team this season and has impressed in his 10 league appearances playing on the front line. TeamTalk claim Arsenal have contacted the player’s agent in a bid to set up talks over a potential deal that is likely to be with the summer in mind.

West Ham concern

Arsenal are on the lookout for a new sporting director after Edu’s resignation announcement, and another London club is said to be fearful. According to The Daily Telegraph.

West Ham are worried that their sporting boss Tim Steidten could be poached away by Arsenal as they look for an Edu replacement. It’s claimed West Ham are intent on keeping Steidten even if an offer comes in, but that will surprise some given there has been pressure mounting on the sporting director due to a poor start to the season from the Irons.

When he announced his resignation, Edu said: “This was an incredibly hard decision to make. Arsenal has given me the opportunity to work with so many amazing people and the chance to be a part of something so special in the club’s history.

“I’ve loved working with so many great colleagues across our men’s, women’s and Academy teams, especially Mikel (Arteta), who has become a great friend. Now it is time to pursue a different challenge. Arsenal will always remain in my heart. I wish the club and its supporters only good things and all the very best.”