Arsenal are set to be busy again in the transfer market this summer regardless of whether Mikel Arteta can lead the Gunners to the Premier League title
Mikel Arteta and his squad are on the brink of glory this season. The north London outfit currently sit top of the Premier League standings with a five-point advantage and three fixtures remaining after second-placed Manchester City could only salvage a late 3-3 draw away at Everton on Monday night.
The commanding 3-0 triumph against Fulham at the weekend delivered a potentially decisive statement, hinting that this could be the campaign Arsenal finally overcome their historical struggles and end their 22-year drought for the league crown.
There’s even greater cause for optimism from the Gunners’ standpoint as they face Atletico Madrid in a Champions League semi-final second leg on Tuesday evening, with the winner booking their place in the final. Now, the Daily Star Sport looks at two of the most recent developments concerning Arteta’s team.
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Martin Zubimendi’s revelation
Martin Zubimendi claims he has evolved into a “different player” since his Arsenal arrival last summer. The Spaniard remains the only outfield player to feature in every league fixture for the Gunners this campaign, highlighting the tremendous influence he’s wielded since his £51million switch from Real Sociedad.
Speaking to the official Arsenal website regarding how he’s changed his approach since moving to England, Zubimendi said: “Once I joined the club I realised that I had a lot to learn; Mikel’s a coach who’s seen a lot, who’s learnt a lot and who’s studied a lot. You can see that since I’ve joined the club I’ve become a different player.
“We work really hard, all of our training sessions have tactical, technical and strategic aspects. Ultimately, repetition leads to perfection, and that’s what we’re trying to achieve.”
Liverpool re-join race for Bradley Barcola
Liverpool have reportedly renewed their pursuit of Arsenal target Bradley Barcola from PSG this summer. The Gunners have been linked with the Frenchman for a number of years and are expected to strengthen their left wing options in the upcoming transfer window.
Given that Barcola is still only 23, an established international star and eager for more regular playing time, Arsenal offers a suitable destination for the skilful winger, who is ‘keen’ to explore his options. However, TeamTalk suggests they could face competition from rivals Liverpool in their bid to secure his services.
The report indicates PSG rejected approaches from Liverpool in March as they were not prepared to let Barcola go at that point. However, it suggests the French champions have reconsidered their stance, meaning he is once again on Liverpool’s radar and his agents have begun exploring potential options.
Barcola has chalked up 12 goals and seven assists so far this campaign, having contributed to 42 goals last season as PSG secured a historic treble. It’s been reported that PSG would look for a price between £80m-£100m to sell.