Man City lead race for Musiala, Arsenal change transfer plans

Man City lead race for Musiala

Manchester City are leading the race to sign Bayern Munich’s Jamal Musiala this summer, the Independent reports. Liverpool, Barcelona and Paris Saint-Germain are among the other clubs interested, although the trio have financial constraints.

Musiala, 21, is uncertain about Bayern’s ability to compete for the Champions League, and is therefore said to be weighing up his own options.

The Independent writes: “Musiala’s contract runs until 2026, and he has so far shown little inclination to extend or improve as his profile grows. There is a belief among other clubs that he may be buyable this year or next, with City the most interested.

“The club’s hierarchy want to specifically improve their attacking areas this summer, especially as Phil Foden moves into a more influential role and Kevin De Bruyne advances into his mid-thirties. City want two players who can fluidly play in a few areas of the forward line, and there is also interest in West Ham United’s Lucas Paqueta and Crystal Palace’s Michael Olise.

“Musiala however would represent a coup above that, as he is seen as one of the next best players in the world. Such a move would potentially necessitate a sale of another high-profile player.”

Arsenal rethink summer plans

The form of Kai Havertz means Arsenal have had a rethink regarding their transfer plans this summer, the Mirror reports. Havertz is enjoying a purple patch in front of goal, with the Gunners on the hunt for a Premier League and Champions League double.

And while they were looking for a big-name striker to sign this summer, that may no longer be the case.

The Mirror adds: “Arsenal may still sign a new striker, but the calibre and experience of their new man may take some by surprise. Now that Havertz has emerged as a new source of regular goals, with five in his last seven, Mirror Football understands Arteta may opt for a younger player who can have time to develop and mature.

“This would be a significant change from the kind of strikers Arsenal were initially being linked with, like Brentford’s Ivan Toney. The Bees are demanding a hefty figure before they part ways with their talisman, which means any move to the Emirates for the England international is now unlikely.”

Arsenal willing to sell Patino

Arsenal are open to selling 20-year-old Charlie Patino this summer with clubs in Spain said to be interested, the Standard reports. The midfielder has been unable to force his way into Mikel Arteta’s first-team plans.

He has been on loan at Swansea this season, and with just one year remaining on his contract come the summer, the club are willing to listen to offers.

The Standard adds: “He faces renewed competition at Arsenal from 17-year-old Ethan Nwaneri, who looks set to be given a first-team push after signing his first professional contract last month.

“Arteta is expected to sanction Patino’s exit this summer to allow Arsenal to cash in on him before his contract expires, with clubs in Spain interested in him.

“Patino holds a Spanish passport through his father Jules, which would boost his hopes of moving to La Liga because clubs would avoid post-Bre