Arsenal news: Mikel Arteta targeting Joshua Kimmich and Benjamin Šeško in Bundesliga raid
Arsenal’s title hopes have been significantly dented by injuries, as disappointing results against West Ham and Nottingham Forest have left the Gunners 13 points adrift of front runners Liverpool.
Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Jesus and Kai Havertz are among those currently sidelined, leaving Arsenal to rue their lack of January transfer activity.
However, it appears as though Mikel Arteta is planning for a huge summer transfer window, with the North Londoners reportedly working on deals for Bayern Munich’s Joshua Kimmich and RB Leipzig striker Benjamin Šeško.
Joshua Kimmich could leave Bayern Munich for free
Several of Europe’s biggest names are circling Bavaria as Kimmich’s contract runs out at the end of the season.
As per Sky Sports, Arsenal are keen to sign the 30-year-old on a free transfer when his contract expires.
The German international has spent almost 10 years at Bayern Munich, where he has become a serial winner.
In 426 appearances, Kimmich’s trophy cabinet includes eight Bundesliga titles, three DFB-Pokals and a Champions League.
Predominantly, the German plays in defensive midfield, however, he is extremely versatile and can also play at right-back.
If Arsenal can bring Kimmich in, it would allow Declan Rice to push further up the pitch, where he is arguably more effective.
Fellow Premier League side Liverpool are also interested, although talks are currently ongoing between Bayern and Kimmich over a new contract, so there is every possibility the midfielder will extend his stay in Bavaria.
Jorginho and Thomas Partey's deals to expire
Two of Arsenal’s midfield options, Jorginho and Thomas Partey, are both out of contract in the summer.
There is currently no indication that the Gunners will extend either of their deals, however, Arteta will likely want to keep at least one of them at the club.
This would suggest that Arsenal will be in the market for a midfielder this summer, whether that be Kimmich or someone else.
The club are reportedly close to agreeing to a deal for Real Sociedad’s Martín Zubimendi, according to Metro.
Benjamin Šeško to solve Arsenal’s centre-forward crisis
It is no secret that Arsenal are a long-term admirer of RB Leipzig’s Šeško, as the North London club made enquiries on the 21-year-old’s availability in January.
The Gunners are also keen on Newcastle United and Sweden forward Alexander Isak, however, the Magpies are set to demand over £120million for the striker’s services.
Liverpool appear to be favourites to land the Swede, with Arsenal reportedly looking to Šeško as a more affordable option, according to the Liverpool Echo.
The Slovenian has scored 17 goals in all competitions this season, including four in the Champions League, and would offer Arsenal a great option for many years to come.
Leipzig could be swayed by a bid of around £66million - almost half of Newcastle’s asking price for Isak.
The Gunners will undoubtedly make a move for a centre-forward in the summer, but ultimately, who they sign will depend on their other transfer targets and how much they cost.
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