After a busy few days in the transfer window, there’s been plenty going on in Arsenal’s pursuits of Malcom, Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang and Henrikh Mkhitaryan. Here are the latest updates.
1Malcom
This deal seems to be off now. David Ornstein says that’s the case, which usually means it’s true. Arsenal feel that the 20-year-old player’s limited experience did not justify Bordeaux’s asking price. Tottenham are reportedly close to a deal now, resuming talks with the player on Thursday evening, according to Goal Brazil.
SATURDAY MORNING UPDATE: ALEXIS MEDICAL TO HAPPEN TODAY
Chris Wheatley writes that the Gunners might go back for Malcom in the summer (if he’s still available), but for now it’s over.
2Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
There have been plenty more rumours about Aubameyang’s £53m move to Arsenal, but not much from reliable sources. The only major update is that Dortmund left the striker out of Friday night’s match against Hertha Berlin. Also, David Ornstein confirmed Arsenal were “hopeful” of a deal, but nothing more substantial than that.
In rumours, WA claim Michael Zorc is flying to London for transfer talks. Other more optimistic reports claim the deal is already done:
Confirmed: Dortmund have a deal with Arsenal. Aubameyang to make the move in the next few days in London for medical and contract. Around €60M including bonuses. Sanchez still a factor in the transition.
— Philip Harmeling (@PhilipHarmeling) January 19, 2018
Realistically, we probably won’t get any further information until Sunday, after both teams finish their matches.
3Henrikh Mkhitaryan
The Mkhitaryan-Sanchez swap deal is still stalling, keeping both players in the lurch. Ornstein says the delay is all thanks to agent Mino Raiola. Apparently Manchester United are happy to sell, and Mkhitaryan would gladly join the Gunners.
SATURDAY MORNING UPDATE: ALEXIS MEDICAL TO HAPPEN TODAY
Unfortunately, the deal still seems like it could fall apart, based on whatever Raiola decides. I’m sure he’s loving every minute.
There were hints throughout Friday that it’s going to happen though. The Mail claim Mkhitaryan has already said his goodbyes to teammates. The Mirror write that both clubs are relaxed and sure a deal will go through, probably next week. A Twitter account masquerading as a horse says we’ll sign a player beginning with the letter ‘M’ first.
We’ll have to wait to know for sure.