Arsenal transfer news: Pep comes for Rice AND “unplayable” Arsenal man

In today’s Arsenal transfer news – How Pep Guardiola could force a double blow onto Mikel Arteta, an update on Declan Rice & much more.

For yesterday’s Arsenal transfer news, click here.

Arsenal transfer news – Manchester City open their Declan Rice bidding

Manchester City, as expected, opened their bidding for Declan Rice last night. However, today, it was revealed that West Ham had rejected the package which was £90m in total. This is because the Hammers believe Arsenal will outbid the Premier League champions.

According to Fabrizio Romano, both clubs are still in the race but the ball is now in Arsenal’s court, for their third official bid to be made.

Arsenal transfer news – Arsenal line up Youssouf Fofana

According to French outlet L’Equipe, Arsenal have lined up Monaco midfielder Youssouf Fofana, as a potential alternative to Declan Rice. While they remain in the race for Rice, it is important that Edu and the Emirates Stadium recruitment team line up options for the worst-case scenario.

Youssouf Fofana is also being targeted by West Ham (ironically) and Newcastle United. Therefore, while Arsenal’s desire remains to sign Rice, they may face a race against time should they be forced into bidding for Fofana.

Arsenal transfer news – Manchester City eye Ethan Nwaneri

With Arsenal facing a tight contract deadline, youngster Ethan Nwaneri could be granted a new opportunity. Manchester City and Chelsea eye the “unplayable” midfielder (described by Jack Wilshere). Sport Bible report that City and Chelsea are infamous for offering academy players the best financial packages, so it might be hard for Arsenal to compete.

What do you make of today’s Arsenal transfer news?