Arsenal transfer target ‘on the brink’ of joining rivals amid Manchester United ‘hijack’ attempt

Arsenal are now back in pre-season as they look to prepare for the new season.

The Gunners will be keen to improve on their fifth place finish from last season to secure Champions League qualification.

Mikel Arteta’s men will also want to make a splash in the Europa League as they prepare to return to Europe, and new signings should help them in their bid.

Gabriel Jesus will be this summer’s marquee arrival, signing from Manchester City, while Fabio Vieira, Marquinhos and Matt Turner have also been snapped up.

We could yet see more arrivals and departures ahead of the new season, and with that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest Gunners transfer news and rumours:

Raphinha blow

Arsenal now look set to miss out on transfer target Raphinha.

The Leeds United winger was the subject of an offer from the Gunners last week, but the Whites rejected the offer.

There was talk Arsenal would be submitting a new offer, but they have been beaten to the punch.

According to multiple reports, Chelsea have now agreed a deal to sign Raphinha worth around £55million, and they are working to wrap up the transfer swiftly.

Martinez concern

Another concern for the Gunners surrounds Ajax centre-back Lisandro Martinez.

Reports this week have claimed Arsenal have made a £34m offer for the highly-rated centre-back, an offer that is below Ajax’s valuation.

But talkSPORT now say Manchester United are prioritising a move for the Argentine, making a £40m bid.

Arsenal may be in danger of missing out on another target.

Bellerin interest

The Gunners are said to have received interest for Hector Bellerin.

It was thought the right-back could be headed for Real Betis on a permanent deal following his loan spell last season.

But it is another La Liga side that has expressed an interest, with Fichajes now saying Atletico Madrid have been in contact with Arsenal over signing the Spaniard this summer.