Arsenal host Manchester United at the Emirates Stadium on Sunday (January 22) in the Premier League. Mikel Arteta’s side are top of the league table after 18 games, while their opponents are eight points behind in fourth.
Meanwhile, Declan Rice prefers to move to the UAE. Elsewhere, the Gunners suffered a setback in the pursuit of Eduardo Camavinga. On that note, here are the key Arsenal transfer stories until 22 January 2023:
Declan Rice prefers move to Emirates
Declan Rice prefer to move arsenal Exceed Chelsea, according to The Guardian.England midfielder likely to leave west ham united at the end of the season.
The 24-year-old has been outstanding for the Hammers in recent seasons but is now eager to take the next step in his career. There is no shortage of options for the player, with clubs including the Blues and Gunners eager to sign him.
Rice was part of Chelsea’s academy during his formative years but was allowed to leave before he could fulfill his potential. Desperate to right their wrongs, the club’s top brass are now pushing hard for his signature. However, the Englishman wanted to move to the Emirates Stadium as he was attracted by the idea of playing under Arteta.
Declan Rice v Everton stats: 100% Tackles won 83% Pass Accuracy 73 Touches 47 Pass Completions 11 Ball Recoveries 16 Final Threes 3 Air Duels 3 Clearances 3 interceptions, 2 long passes and 1 key pass. Excellent performance. 🍚 https://t.co/qN8SGXDCDp
The Spanish boss has guided his side to the top of the league this season, making them favorites to go all the way. However, Arteta is aware his side need reinforcements to sustain their recent rise and wants to place Rice at the heart of midfield. Ideally, West Ham would like to demand a massive fee in excess of £100m for their star player.
However, the Englishman’s current contract expires in 2024 and he has yet to commit to a new deal. As such, the 24-year-old could come in the form of a cut-price deal at the end of the season. Rice has played 26 times for West Ham this season, scoring 1 goal and assisting 3 goals.
Arsenal suffer setback for Eduardo Camavinga
Arsenal suffer blow in title quest Eduardo Camavinga to the UAE.
The France midfielder is one of the most talented young players at the moment and he has been impressive real MadridHowever, he has reportedly been left uneasy at the Santiago Bernabeu after failing to become a regular under Carlo Ancelotti.
The Gunners hope to secure his signature by offering him regular first-team football.
The north London giants have been heavily linked with a move for the player this month. More recently, however, as quoted by 90 Min, the player’s agent Joshua Barnett stated that his client is happy with Real Madrid:
“[He left]there is no truth. Of course, every club in the world wants him, but he is happy at Real Madrid and Real Madrid are happy with Camavinga,” Barnett said.
Ancelotti also stressed in his recent speech that the 20-year-old is already in his plans.
“I really believe in him. Admittedly, I sent him off a number of times towards the end of the first half and I haven’t always been fair to him in that regard, but I have total confidence in him and he will be as usual tomorrow. Contribute to the team as well,” Ancelotti said.
Camavinga has played 26 times for the La Liga giants this season and has 1 assist.
Edu Gasper wants Raphinha to join Emirates
Reporter Pete O’Rourke says Arsenal sporting director Edou Gasper is a fan of Rafinha.
The 26-year-old moved to Barcelona from Leeds United last summer but has struggled to settle at the Nou Camp. Arteta is looking for attacking reinforcements and is now ready for the player to return.
Rafinha’s first 14 Barcelona games: 1 goal and 1 assist. Rafinha’s last 10 Barcelona games: 3 goals and 6 assists. https://t.co/IkjVlhTPt6
The Gunners were heavily linked with a move for the Brazilian last summer but were unable to agree on one. Speaking to Give Me Sport, O’Rourke said Edu believed his compatriot would be a good fit for the Emirates.
“It makes sense, Arsenal are interested in Rafinha. They were obviously very keen to sign him last summer before he moved to Barcelona, so I’m sure he’s been on the radar. Edu is a big fan too. He’s a fellow Brazilian and thinks he’d be a good fit for Arsenal,” O’Rourke said.
This season, Rafinha played 24 times on behalf of Barcelona, contributing 4 goals and 6 assists.
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