Fabrizio Romano reveals Mikel Arteta’s next Arsenal transfer priority after Declan Rice deal

Mikel Arteta and Edu already know their next transfer window priority, according to Fabrizio Romano.

The Gunners have enjoyed a busy summer so far, spending more than £200million to land three key targets, including Declan Rice, Kai Havertz and Jurrien Timber. Arteta has been firmly backed by the board in his mission to close the gap between his side and Manchester City, and we still have plenty of time remaining in the window.

There will still be other areas Arsenal want to strengthen, but exits will be important to any further incomings, with the Gunners needing to balance the books with outgoings.

That’s something transfer insider Romano has detailed during his latest conversation with CaughtOffisde, claiming Arsenal’s new transfer window priority is getting unwanted players out the door.

“My understanding for now is that the priority for Arsenal at the moment is to offload and sell players,” Romano said. “I think that’s pretty normal after the big spending on Kai Havertz, Jurrien Timber and Declan Rice.

“As previously reported, Thomas Partey is someone who has interest and who could leave if an important offer comes in, while Folarin Balogun is attracting interest from Inter Milan.

“After that we will see about more additions, but at the moment I’m told there’s no bid or concrete negotiation for Kudus. Brighton have always been interested in Kudus this summer and he remains on their list.”

Nicolas Pepe is another player Arsenal are likely to offload, while Kieran Tierney could yet move on to pastures new amid reduced appearances last season. Though, in the cases of Partey and Tierney, in particular, Arsenal will likely need to find replacements ahead of the new season, given they will be reluctant to lose depth ahead of a campaign that will also see them competing in the Champions League.