In this Arsenal newspaper roundup, we delve into the latest transfer rumours, player updates, and fan experiences.
From the speculated moves of Ivan Toney and Jorrel Hato to Mary Earps’ future and fan surveys, this article brings you the essential Arsenal news.
Ivan Toney transfer speculation amidst Brentford’s struggles
Source – Daily Mail, Daily Mirror
Brentford’s current predicament in the Premier League has raised questions about the future of their star striker, Ivan Toney, who has been linked with a move to Arsenal.
The striker, currently serving an eight-month ban for breaching betting rules, has not played since May, but his absence has been keenly felt by the Bees, who have lost their last five league games.
Thomas Frank, Brentford’s head coach, acknowledges the challenges the team faces without Toney and other key players like Bryan Mbeumo and Kevin Schade.
Frank remarked, “We need more than Ivan,” emphasising the club’s need for depth in their offensive line-up. Despite their struggles, Brentford are determined to keep Toney, at least until the end of this season.
However, the club seems resigned to losing him in the summer, with his contract having only 18 months remaining and no new deal offered yet.
Arsenal, Tottenham, and Chelsea are among the clubs reportedly interested in Toney, whose ban ends on January 17.
Frank expressed confidence in keeping Toney beyond the transfer window, saying, “I expect Ivan to be here on February 1.”
He also joked that he would turn off his phone in the last two days of the window to avoid any distractions from potential transfers.
Arsenal’s interest in Jorrel Hato
Source – Daily Telegraph
In other news, Arsenal are reportedly eyeing a move for Ajax defender Jorrel Hato.
The 17-year-old, who can play at both centre-back and left-back, has already made an impact at the international level with the Netherlands.
Hato is seen as a long-term investment for strengthening Mikel Arteta‘s defence, although financial constraints may delay Arsenal’s bid until the summer.
Mary Earps’ future at Manchester United
Source – Daily Telegraph
Mary Earps, the England No1 goalkeeper, is open to extending her stay at Manchester United, despite interest from Paris St-Germain.
With her contract set to expire, United are keen on negotiating a new deal, aiming to avoid losing her on a free transfer.
The club has expressed no intention of selling Earps this month, though she is free to discuss terms with non-English clubs, including PSG.
Arsenal made a £100,000 bid for Earps in the summer which was rejected and it is believed that they have cooled their interest in Earps significantly since.
Arsenal fans’ matchday experience survey
Source – Daily Mirror
Lastly, Arsenal fans were invited to participate in a survey regarding their matchday experience at the Emirates Stadium.
The survey, conducted after the West Ham clash, focused on various aspects, including the atmosphere, value for money, turnstiles, and ticketing.
This season, Arsenal have sought to distribute tickets more equitably among its 45,000 season ticket-holders, reducing allocations to the ‘Ashburton Army’ to enable broader access to games.
Manager Mikel Arteta, seeking a vibrant atmosphere, welcomed the club’s initiative to engage with fans and improve their experience.
The survey addressed issues such as the atmosphere at games, which has been a topic of discussion among fans this year, particularly in comparison to last season when the team was pushing for the title.