Arsenal ‘make contact’ with big-money transfer target as Gunners brace for spending budget boost

Arsenal are now preparing for their next pre-season friendly after seeing off Nurnberg last week.

The Gunners face Everton on Sunday, with Mikel Arteta and his men ramping up their summer efforts ahead of the start of the season in just a few weeks time.

In the meantime, Arteta and Edu will be working behind the scenes to pull of even more deals amid an exciting summer.

The Gunners have already added key pieces to their squad ahead of the new season, and they could yet continue their spending.

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

Paqueta latest

Arsenal chief Edu is said to be keen to pull off a deal for Lyon midfielder Lucas Paqueta.

The Gunners have been linked with the Brazilian in recent days, and it’s reported Edu has already spoken to the player’s representatives.

That’s according to Goal, who say Lyon want as much as £67million this summer to sell the midfield star.

While LondonWorld understands that while no bid has been made yet, both Arsenal and Paqueta are keen on a move.

Raphinha bids

Arsenal are said to have outbid Barcelona for Leeds United winger Raphinha.

The Gunners and Chelsea are both said to have submitted proposals to the Whites, but the winger is said to want a move to Camp Nou.

According to Mundo Deportivo, Leeds are yet to respond to any of the offers, but Barca’s bid is below the other offers anyway.

Leno exit

Fulham are said to be closing in on a deal for Arsenal keeper Bernd Leno.

The Gunners have already replaced the German with Matt Turner this summer, and they are now looking to cash in.

According to the Evening Standard, newly promoted Fulham will snap up Leno, with a £10million deal on the table.

With Turner already on board, and with Aaron Ramsdale number one, the cash will be a nice top up for the Gunners’ transfer kitty.