Arsenal star tipped for award as Gunners ‘consider’ swap deal involving in-form striker

Arsenal strengthened their grip at the top of the Premier League over the weekend.

The Gunners had the advantage of playing Premier League while Manchester City were in FA Cup action, and Mikel Arteta’s men piled on the pressure by extending their lead to eight points for now. Arsenal made it look easy against strugglers Crystal Palace, cruising to a 4-1 win at the Emirates Stadium. The international break now takes hold, and Arsenal will then have the run-in to take care of in their bid to become Premier League champions.

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

Saka praise

Match of the Day presenter Gary Lineker has praised Bukayo Saka after the winger’s superb performance during Arsenal’s win over Palace.

“Two goals and an assist for the irrepressible @BukayoSaka87 as @Arsenal march on,” Lineker tweeted. “What a player, who, if we voted tomorrow, would get my vote for footballer of the year (yes, as a member of @theofficialfwa I do get a vote).”

Saka has scored 10 and assisted 13 times for Arsenal across all competitions so far this season, a tally he continues to add to.

Balogun links

Folarin Balogun continues to pop up in transfer rumours as he continues his fine form with Reims.

The out on loan Arsenal striker has scored 17 goals in 27 league appearances for the French side, and he is now being linked with a move to Serie A to join Italian giants AC Milan. According to CalcioMercatoWeb, Arsenal could consider a swap deal involving Balogun in a bid to land Ismael Bannacer.

Ultimately, Balogun might struggle for game time at Arsenal next season, even with his current form, given Gabriel Jesus and Eddie Nketiah’s presence, while the Gunners may even strengthen their attacking ranks again this summer.