Arsenal transfer round-up: Ivan Toney makes Gunners admission as Real Madrid track star

It had looked a very good transfer window for Arsenal after capturing Kai Havertz, Declan Rice, and Jurrien Timber

Manager Mikel Arteta persuaded the powers that be to spend in excess £200m on the trio, but his work has since been soured by a serious injury to Timber. A further £3m has been paid out to secure ex-Brentford goalkeeper David Raya on loan, in a deal that also includes an option to buy clause worth £27m.

However, that acquisition has raised eyebrows. Current No 1 Aaron Ramsdale has been a vital cog in the wheel in Arsenal’s rise under Arteta, with fans now questioning if his place is up for grabs.

It has previously been reported that Toney was a boyhood Arsenal fan, but he has since claimed he supports Liverpool. However, he clearly still holds the Gunners in high regard, saying: “Yeah, I’ve been a Liverpool fan my whole life but from young, I’ve liked Arsenal. I’ve liked watching Arsenal. I like how they play and kind of how passionate the fans are.”

That’s despite the striker’s tweet at the start of the 2021/22 season, after Brentford’s opening night victory over Arsenal. Toney went on Twitter to write: “Nice kick about with the boys.”

Monaco’s Balogun talks continue

Monaco remain in talks with Arsenal over a deal for striker Folarin Balogun, according to Sky Sports News.

The Ligue 1 side are expected to come back in with a bid of around £49 million, after their initial offer was rejected. And the Gunners remain open to letting the American leave.

The French side face competition though. Spurs, Chelsea, and even La Liga champions Barcelona have also been linked to the want-away star, with each of the trio in the market for a new striker.

But the the centre-back is reportedly set to reject their advances, and is ‘very happy’ at the Emirates. There has also been interest from the Saudi Pro League too but the 25-year-old Brazil international is committed to challenging for the title again under Mikel Arteta.

And the injury to Jurrien Timber means the Spanish boss is unlikely to sanction a move. Gabriel has made 120 appearances for the club since signing in 2020 from Lille.

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