Jack Wilshere Encourages Declan Rice to Join Arsenal and Become Future Captain

 Former Arsenal midfielder Jack Wilshere has expressed his desire for West Ham's Declan Rice to make the switch to Arsenal, envisioning the talented midfielder as a potential future captain for the Gunners. Rice's future has become a hot topic as several top clubs, including Bayern Munich and Manchester United, show interest in securing his services. With West Ham chairman David Sullivan acknowledging that Rice may have played his last game for the club, the summer transfer saga surrounding the 24-year-old England international is set to unfold.

Jack Wilshere, who had a brief stint at West Ham from 2018 to 2020, described Rice as a "special" player and expressed his belief that Arsenal would be the ideal destination for him. Speaking to AFTV, Wilshere noted Rice's achievements at a young age, including lifting the Europa Conference League trophy, and emphasized the responsibility he carries for both club and country. Wilshere hopes that if Rice were to make the move to Arsenal, he would continue to excel for the next decade and eventually assume the role of captain

Reports from Mail Sport indicate that Arsenal is eager to secure Rice's signature with a £90 million deal this summer. The Gunners view midfield as a priority area for recruitment as they aim to rebuild after a disappointing season. With Granit Xhaka likely to depart for the Bundesliga, the club seeks to strengthen their options in the middle of the park. West Ham, on the other hand, reportedly expects the guaranteed portion of Rice's transfer fee to be paid by next year.

West Ham appears to be resigned to Rice's potential departure, as indicated by David Sullivan's admission that the club had promised Rice he could seek a move. Sullivan, speaking on talkSPORT, acknowledged Rice's contributions and expressed the need for the club to find suitable replacements. Despite offering Rice a substantial contract 18 months ago, the player declined the offer and seems determined to pursue new challenges elsewhere.

Jack Wilshere's endorsement of Declan Rice's potential move to Arsenal has added fuel to the speculation surrounding the midfielder's future. With several top clubs vying for his signature, Rice's transfer saga is set to dominate the headlines in the coming months. Arsenal, aiming to strengthen their midfield options, sees Rice as a key target. As the summer transfer window unfolds, fans eagerly await the outcome, while West Ham prepares for the departure of their talented young star.

Arsenal Fans React to Oleksandr Zinchenko's Congratulations to Manchester City for Champions League Win

 Oleksandr Zinchenko, the former Manchester City player who joined Arsenal this season, has sparked a strong reaction among Arsenal fans with his recent congratulatory message to his former club on their Champions League victory. While Manchester City's historic treble win undoubtedly merits celebration, Zinchenko's gesture has left some Gunners supporters fuming, highlighting the passion and loyalty of football fandom.

Following Manchester City's 1-0 triumph over Inter Milan in the Champions League final, securing their treble-winning status, Zinchenko took to Instagram to share City's post and expressed his congratulations with three clapping emojis. This action ignited anger and frustration among Arsenal supporters, who deemed it disrespectful.

On social media platforms, many Arsenal fans expressed their discontentment with Zinchenko's message. Some demanded that the club sell the defender immediately, labeling his actions as "nonsense" and "pathetic." The disappointment was heightened by Zinchenko's significant transfer fee and the emotional investment fans place in their team's pursuit of success.

However, not all Gunners fans were critical of Zinchenko's gesture. Some supporters interpreted it as an act of sportsmanship and understanding, acknowledging that the competition and camaraderie of the sport extend beyond individual team loyalties. They urged fellow fans to remain focused on the upcoming season and hope for Arsenal's turn to be congratulated in the future.

As an Arsenal fan what do you make of his actions, was it right to congratulate his former team mates and club or are you just not having it. Please leave your comments on the comment section.

Breaking News: Arsenal Reach Agreement on Four-Year Contract Extension with William Saliba

In a significant boost for Arsenal and manager Mikel Arteta, the club has reportedly agreed on a four-year contract extension with William Saliba. According to David Ornstein of The Athletic, the 22-year-old defender will sign the new deal, ensuring his stay at the Emirates Stadium until at least 2027.

Saliba made a strong impression in his debut season in English football, receiving rave reviews for his performances in the Premier League during the 2022-23 campaign. His impressive displays caught the attention of several clubs, both domestically and internationally.

With only one year remaining on his existing contract, Arsenal faced the risk of losing the highly talented young player on a free transfer next summer or having to sell him to recoup some funds. However, negotiations with Saliba's representatives have been ongoing since before the World Cup, and an agreement has now been reached.

The exact details of Saliba's new contract are yet to be disclosed, but his current deal is believed to earn him around £40,000 per week. Given his improved status within Arteta's squad, it is expected that his new terms will include a significant pay increase.

Since joining Arsenal as a teenager in the summer of 2019 for a fee of £27 million, Saliba had not signed improved terms until now. Arteta expressed confidence in the young defender's commitment to the club, but emphasized the importance of waiting for the right time to finalize the contract extension.

Saliba played a crucial role in Arsenal's title challenge this season, contributing to the team's impressive defensive record with 11 Premier League clean sheets. His absence due to a back injury coincided with the team's decline in the latter stages of the campaign.

The Gunners have been proactive in securing the futures of key players, recently announcing new deals for Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Gabriel Magalhaes, and goalkeeper Aaron Ramsdale. By securing Saliba's long-term commitment, Arsenal will gain greater defensive solidity and potentially reduce the need to pursue another center-back in the current transfer window.

While there were rumors linking Saliba to Paris Saint-Germain, it appears that Arsenal has successfully fended off any potential suitors. Previous reports had suggested that the player's wage demands, rumored to be around £120,000 per week, had deterred the North London club.

If the reported agreement is indeed finalized, it will provide Arteta with additional options in defense, potentially allowing him to move Ben White back to his natural position as a center-back. Arsenal is also said to be pursuing a deal for Portugal and Manchester City defender Joao Cancelo, which would further strengthen their defensive options and provide healthy competition in the right-back position alongside injured Takehiro Tomiyasu

Arsenal Eyeing Chelsea's Kai Havertz as Potential Transfer Target

There are reports suggesting that Arsenal is considering a move for Chelsea forward Kai Havertz in the upcoming transfer window.

Havertz, who represents Germany internationally, has had a mixed tenure at Stamford Bridge. While he scored the winning goal in the Champions League final during his first season, his overall performance has lacked consistency throughout his time at the club.

In 139 appearances across all competitions, Havertz has contributed 32 goals and 15 assists. However, given his role in the central attack, these numbers are considered below-par.

Initially, it seemed that the 23-year-old was set to remain an integral part of Mauricio Pochettino's plans for the 2023-24 season. However, recent rumors have linked Havertz with a potential move to Real Madrid, who are in need of attacking reinforcements after several player departures.

It is currently uncertain whether Real Madrid President Florentino Perez is willing to meet Chelsea's asking price, which is reportedly around £70 million.

According to The Telegraph, Arsenal may enter the race to sign Havertz during the summer transfer window. The Gunners have significant funds available following their return to the Champions League, with most of it expected to be allocated to strengthening their defense and midfield.

Arsenal's management sees an opportunity to take advantage of Chelsea's need to offload players quickly to meet Financial Fair Play requirements. However, both Real Madrid and Arsenal are reportedly unwilling to pay more than £50 million for Havertz, leaving Chelsea to consider whether they are willing to adjust their stance.

There have been suggestions that Havertz has been given an ultimatum regarding his contract situation. However, it remains doubtful whether bids in the range of £50 million would be seriously considered by Chelsea at this stage.

Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital, who have interests in the matter, are believed to be firm on their valuation of other players, including Mason Mount, even though Mount has a year less remaining on his contract compared to Havertz.

The situation surrounding Havertz's future is still developing, and it remains to be seen if any concrete offers are made for the talented forward.

Arsenal Open to Offers for Jorginho & Latest Updates on Emile Smith Rowe's Future

According to information obtained by 90min, Arsenal is willing to entertain offers for midfielder Jorginho this summer. The 31-year-old joined the Emirates Stadium in January as part of Mikel Arteta's efforts to revitalize the squad and make an unexpected push for the Premier League title.

Arteta faced challenges with squad depth, heavily relying on players like Thomas Partey, Granit Xhaka, and Martin Odegaard during the first part of the season. Jorginho's experience at the highest level was seen as a valuable addition to Arsenal's squad, as they aimed to close the gap with the dominant Manchester City.

Jorginho made 14 appearances, displacing Partey as a deep-lying playmaker, but despite his contributions, Arsenal's impressive run of results eventually tapered off. They finished as runners-up to City, comfortably ahead of Manchester United and Newcastle. However, Jorginho's signing was always intended as a short-term solution.

Sources reveal that Arsenal will not impede Jorginho's potential return to Italy this summer. Lazio's manager, Maurizio Sarri, who previously worked with Jorginho at Chelsea, is keen to reunite with him at Stadio Olimpico. Serie A champions Napoli and Champions League semi-finalists AC Milan have also expressed interest.

While Arsenal is not actively pushing Jorginho out of the club, they are aware that they need to create space in their squad for new signings. Granit Xhaka's departure to Bayer Leverkusen is imminent, and Albert Sambi Lokonga, whose loan spell at Crystal Palace was not successful, is also likely to be moved on.

The departures of Xhaka and Lokonga could pave the way for the arrivals of Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo. Despite their high price tags, Arsenal remains keen to secure both players. West Ham captain Rice, who recently lifted the Europa Conference League, is eager to pursue new ambitions, and while West Ham values him at £100 million, Arsenal is interested in securing his services. As for Caicedo, Brighton may be willing to accept around £80 million, a figure Arsenal hesitated to meet during the previous transfer window.

In other news, Arsenal has no intentions of selling attacking midfielder Emile Smith Rowe. The 22-year-old signed a new five-year contract last year and holds the prestigious number ten shirt. Despite facing injury setbacks and increased competition for his position, Arsenal remains committed to Smith Rowe's development and expects him to regain his best form next season.

Additionally, the club is finalizing a contract extension for winger Reiss Nelson, demonstrating their belief in his potential, despite concerns about his playing time.

Arsenal's transfer plans reflect their determination to strengthen the squad and compete at the highest level in the upcoming season.

Source: 90Min

Steph Catley Extends Her Contract With Arsenal

Steph Catley, the talented left-back, has extended her contract with Arsenal, expressing her joy and sense of belonging at the club. Since joining the Gunners in 2020 and making her debut in the UEFA Women's Champions League quarter-final against Paris Saint-Germain, Catley has made significant contributions to the team.The 29-year-old Australian international has made 74 appearances for Arsenal, scoring three goals. Catley's bond with the club is evident as she described her feelings, stating, "It feels amazing - this feels like home. I've made some incredible friendships here, and when the offer came around, I knew exactly what I wanted to do and exactly where I wanted to be. I've never been happier playing football, and I feel like this team is very special."

Catley's impact on Arsenal's 2022/23 campaign was substantial, with 32 appearances, four assists, and one goal. Not only did she excel in her usual role as a left-back, but she also showcased her versatility by playing as a centre-back on multiple occasions, delivering impressive performances. Her contributions were evident in Arsenal's 5-1 away victory against Champions League holders Lyon in October 2022.

Arsenal's head coach, Jonas Eidevall, expressed his delight with Catley's contract extension, highlighting her exceptional defensive abilities and her positive influence both on and off the pitch. He emphasized that she is a valued member of the team and an exemplary professional.

On the international stage, Catley has represented Australia with distinction, earning over 100 caps. She has participated in prestigious tournaments such as the FIFA World Cup in 2015 and 2019, as well as the Olympics in 2016 and 2020.

Clare Wheatley, the Head of Women's Football at Arsenal, also expressed her delight at Catley's contract renewal, recognizing her as one of the top players in the world in her position. Wheatley emphasized Catley's consistent performances and her crucial role within the team, expressing her excitement about Catley's continued presence in Arsenal colors.With Catley's commitment and contributions, Arsenal's women's team looks forward to building upon their recent successes and achieving even greater accomplishments in the future.

West Ham United chairman David Sullivan Confirms Declan Rice Imminent Exit

West Ham United chairman David Sullivan has confirmed that midfielder Declan Rice will be leaving the club during the upcoming summer transfer window. Rice played his final match for the Hammers in their UEFA Europa Conference League victory over Fiorentina on Wednesday, June 7.

Having joined West Ham as a youth player from Chelsea in 2014, Rice has made a significant impact at the club. Since his promotion to the first team in 2017, the Englishman has accumulated 245 appearances, scoring 15 goals and providing 13 assists.

While Rice was previously linked with a move last summer, Sullivan has now affirmed that the player's departure is imminent. Speaking to talkSPORT after the Conference League final win, Sullivan stated, "We promised him he could go. He set his heart on going. You can't ask for a man who has committed more to us this season. In due course, he has to move on, and we have to find a replacement or several replacements."

Sullivan also addressed the offers for Rice, stating that while no official bids have been received yet, he expects them to start coming in. He emphasized that clubs should refrain from making offers while West Ham is still involved in competitive matches, as it goes against the principles of respectable clubs.

Although Arsenal is reported to be leading the race for Rice's signature, Bayern Munich and Manchester United have also been linked with the midfielder.

In the Conference League final held at the Eden Arena in Prague, West Ham secured victory against Fiorentina. Said Benrahma's penalty kick in the 62nd minute gave the Hammers the lead, but Fiorentina quickly equalized through Giacomo Bonaventura. However, a late left-footed strike from Jarrod Bowen in the 90th minute secured the title for West Ham.

Rice addressed the ongoing speculation about his future after the match, expressing uncertainty and stating his commitment to West Ham. He mentioned having two years left on his contract and acknowledged that the final decision rests with the club.

While Rice's departure seems likely, he has shown respect for his current club, and his focus remains on his contractual obligations with West Ham for the time being.

Arsenal Star Bukayo Saka Receives Praise During Visit to Nigeria

Bukayo Saka, the talented Arsenal football star, has been receiving praise from Nigerians on Twitter during his visit to Nigeria, with his latest stop being in Kwara State, located in the western-central region of the country.

One Twitter user expressed, "Kwara is blessed with so many great people spread around the world," highlighting the pride felt by the locals.

A photo surfaced of Saka alongside individuals claimed to be his grandparents from the state, further strengthening the connection between the young star and his Nigerian heritage.

The 21-year-old player, who recently extended his contract with Arsenal until 2027, has been in Nigeria for nearly a week, engaging in various activities and meetings.

Notably, he recently had a meeting with Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos.

Expressing his gratitude, Saka has thanked Nigerians for the warm welcome he has received throughout his travels, with people eager to capture photos and greet him.

Born in London to Nigerian parents in 2001, Saka has made the choice to represent England at the international level. However, his visit to Nigeria has allowed him to connect with his cultural roots and receive admiration from fans in his parents' homeland.

Credit: BBC News

Edu Arsenal’s Sporting Director on the Hunt for Next Gabriel Martinelli

According to journalist James McNicholas on the Arsecast Podcast, Arsenal's sporting director Edu is actively seeking to sign the next Gabriel Martinelli for the club this summer.

Under Edu's guidance, Arsenal's recent recruitment efforts have yielded impressive results. The acquisition of William Saliba has shown promise, while the signings of Gabriel Jesus and Oleksandr Zinchenko from Manchester City have proven to be astute moves.As Arsenal aims to strengthen their squad for the upcoming season, high-profile players such as Declan Rice and Moises Caicedo have been linked with potential moves to bolster Mikel Arteta's midfield.

However, Edu is also keen on uncovering hidden gems during this transfer window, reminiscent of his success in discovering Gabriel Martinelli in Brazil. Last year, he brought Marquinhos to the Emirates, who made a memorable debut in the Europa League with a goal.

Utilizing his connections in his homeland, Edu hopes to replicate that success in North London by identifying promising South American talents. McNicholas suggests that Arsenal may sign a 19 or 20-year-old player who Arteta rates highly, potentially joining the first-team squad immediately.

The rise of Gabriel Martinelli at Arsenal has been nothing short of incredible. From his humble beginnings in the Brazilian fourth division, he has quickly become one of the Premier League's most dangerous wingers. If Edu can replicate his feat of discovering Martinelli by finding a similar talent this summer, it would be a significant coup for Arsenal.

However, the market for such talents has become increasingly competitive. Chelsea has already secured the signing of Andrey Santos, while Endrick is set to join Real Madrid. Edu may need to prioritize finalizing Arteta's main targets before pursuing unknown Brazilian talents.

Nonetheless, the pursuit of the next Gabriel Martinelli remains a focal point for Arsenal's sporting director as he strives to strengthen the squad for the challenges ahead.

Arsenal Striker Folarin Balogun Set For The Exit Door, Draws Interest from Milan Clubs

Folarin Balogun, the talented Arsenal striker, has become a target for both Milan clubs as he looks set to depart the Emirates Stadium this summer. The former England Under-21 star has garnered attention across Europe following an impressive loan spell at Reims, where he notched 22 goals.AC Milan and Inter Milan are among the teams vying for Balogun's signature, while Roma is also keeping tabs on his situation, particularly amidst uncertainty surrounding the future of Tammy Abraham.

Balogun, who is due to return to Arsenal after the conclusion of his loan deal, seems increasingly unlikely to stay with the Gunners. The 21-year-old has expressed a desire to continue playing regular first-team football following his breakthrough season at Reims.

Given that Gabriel Jesus is Arsenal's preferred striker, Balogun faces an uphill battle in surpassing the Brazilian international in the pecking order for the upcoming season. Furthermore, Eddie Nketiah remains at the club, further limiting Balogun's prospects for significant game time.

With two years remaining on his current contract, Arsenal, albeit reluctantly, will seriously consider selling Balogun in preparation for the forthcoming season. The young center-forward, who has represented England at junior levels, has decided to pledge his international allegiance to the United States at the senior level.Currently, Balogun finds himself in Los Angeles, training alongside his international teammates ahead of the CONCACAF Nations League. He will be hoping to make a positive start to his international career as the US Men's National Team prepares to face Mexico in the semi-final match this month.

Arsenal Revive Interest in Ivan Fresneda following Valladolid Relegation from La Liga

Arsenal has reignited their pursuit of young defender Ivan Fresneda following Real Valladolid's relegation from La Liga.

Mikel Arteta had shown keen interest in the 18-year-old right-back during the January transfer window when he sought to strengthen his squad for the title race. However, Valladolid's hefty £35 million price tag had hindered any potential deal. Now, with suggestions that the Spanish club is willing to sell for half of that valuation, Arsenal could have an opportunity to make a formal offer.

Fresneda, highly recommended by Arsenal's scouts, is a promising talent, although he remains relatively inexperienced, having made just 26 senior appearances for Valladolid since being released by Real Madrid's youth academy at the age of 14.

However, the young defender aligns with Arsenal's strategy of signing hungry, young players with the potential to develop and increase their market value. With a price tag of £17.5 million, Fresneda fits within Arteta's budget as he aims to strengthen the squad ahead of the club's return to Champions League football next season.

While Ben White unexpectedly thrived as a right-back after transitioning from center-half last season, Arteta remains uncertain about his long-term role in that position. Takehiro Tomiyasu provided backup to White until sustaining a serious knee injury in the Europa League defeat to Sporting Lisbon in March. Currently recovering from surgery, the Japanese international is unlikely to be fit for the first couple of months of the upcoming season.

Meanwhile, Cedric Soares has returned to the club following an underwhelming loan spell at Fulham. However, the 31-year-old Portuguese international does not feature in Arteta's plans and is expected to depart this summer.

Arteta is determined to avoid a repeat of last season's title run-in, which saw Thomas Partey deputize as a makeshift right-back while White returned to center-half due to William Saliba's injury. Securing Fresneda's signature would provide defensive cover and allow Arteta to rotate his team without the risk of a late-season burnout.

Source: The Sun UK