Arsenal transfer round-up: Romeo Lavia setback as Folarin Balogun decision made

Mikel Arteta has just over a ,onth to further strengthen his Arsenal squad, with the Gunners preparing for a return to the Champions League.

Last season’s Premier League runners-up have already spent big, bringing in Declan Rice, Hai Havertz and Jurrien Timber at a combined cost of around £200m. They have also lost some first-teamers, though, with Granit Xhaka the highest-profile name to move on.

As the Gunners continue their pre-season US tour with a match against Barcelona, Arteta, Edu and the club’s higher-ups will continue to work behind the scenes. Here are the latest news lines from a big summer for the Gunners.

Lavia development bad news for Arsenal

Romeo Lavia has agreed personal terms with Liverpool, according to reports from Belgium (via The Express). However, a move is far from certain, with the Merseyside club yet to agree a fee with Southampton.

Arsenal have rivalled Liverpool for the signature of the teenager, who was a rare bright spark last season as the Saints finished bottom of the Premier League. Former club Manchester City have a buy-back option which comes into play in 2024, but clubs are keen to take advantage of Southampton’s relegation and pounce now.

Liverpool are expected to launch a bid worth £35m as they attempt to reinforce amid a number of departures in midfield, with Southampton tipped to hold out for more. While Arsenal have not mounted a bid themselves, they – like Jurgen Klopp’s side – are reluctant to meet the £50m valuation from the selling club.

Balogun decision made

Arsenal striker Folarin Balogun has been training away from his team-mates amid speculation around a summer exit. The American international, who was out on loan last season, has been linked with a switch to Inter Milan.

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Manager Mikel Arteta has made clear he and his staff want to watch the youngster, who scored 21 Ligue 1 goals for Reims last term. “We want to see him, we want to experience him in the next few games… then we’ll make the best decision.”

Now, though, the striker’s involvement beyond the current US tour has been questioned amid the training decision. Oleksandr Zinchenko also trained away from his team-mates, but his situation related specifically to his recovery from injury.