Arsenal receive transfer windfall ‘lifeline’ after missing out on defensive target

Arsenal were dealt a small setback over the weekend after failing to see off London rivals Fulham.

The Gunners came back from behind to lead against the Cottagers, but they were ultimately forced to settle for a point after conceding late on. Mikel Arteta won’t be too concerned by the draw, but he will be seriously considering whether his squad is ready to battle for a title without further additions ahead of Friday’s deadline, while some players will also be sold before then.

With that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest transfer news and rumours surrounding the Emirates Stadium.

Pepe exit latest

Arsenal could yet offload Nicolas Pepe before the deadline.

Pepe is not part of Arteta’s plans for this season, and Arsenal are searching for ways to offload him, while also hoping to reclaim at least a portion of the £72million they spent to sign him back in 2019. Options have been few and far between so far, but L’Equipe have reported that Besiktas are interested in a deal.

Pepe has reportedly ruled out a move to Turkey, while Foot Mercato say there is also interest from both Germany and Saudi Arabia. Talks are expected to ramp up in the coming days. It’s also worth noting that the Saudi deadline is after the English deadline.

Cancelo blow

Arsenal have missed out on one of their reported defensive targets.

The Gunners have been heavily linked with a move for Manchester City star Joao Cancelo, but Barcelona have got their hands on the Portugal international first. Cancelo fell out with Pep Guardiola and spent last season on loan with Bayern Munich.

Transfer insider Fabrizio Romano wrote on Twitter: “João Cancelo to Barcelona, here we go! Manchester City and Barça are finally exchanging documents right now to get the deal signed today. João, prepared to travel to Barcelona tonight. Loan deal with buy option clause included…it was just matter of time.”