Arsenal transfer news: Mikel Arteta wants to improve his striking depth ahead of the 2023/24 season.
Harvey Barnes of Leicester City is allegedly a target for Arsenal. Following the Foxes’ relegation from the Premier League, the England international is expected to leave this summer, with a number of clubs interested.
Despite Leicester’s relegation, Barnes, 25, had one of his best seasons on an individual level last season, scoring 13 goals in 40 games.
The Burnley native is poised to return to the Premier League during the summer transfer window. His pay and valuation appear to be too much for the Foxes to turn down, with a slew of suitors already lined up.
Spurs and West Ham have been heavily connected in the previous month, with Spurs reportedly presenting a £50 million proposal for Barnes and James Maddison. According to recent rumors, Ange Postecoglou’s team is dominating the fight to recruit Maddison, leaving the door open for Arsenal to rush in.
The Gunners are interested in the forward, according to the Daily Mail. A move for Barnes, on the other hand, is expected to take some time. According to the report, Leicester is yet to set a price for its star winger.
CIES Football Observatory values Barnes at €30 million (£25.5 million), however a figure closer to £40 million has been floated in the past. Last week’s appointment of Enzo Maresca at the King Power Stadium will almost probably have a significant impact on the future of Leicester’s greatest players in the coming weeks.
Mikel Arteta is looking to bolster his attacking options ahead of next season. Gabriel Martinelli and Bukayo Saka both enjoyed fantastic seasons last term, but options off the bench have been unable to produce the goods when called upon.
Kai Havertz is a genuine target but the signing of Barnes would add a different option off the left wing. However, it remains to be seen whether sporting director Edu Gaspar will sanction a deal close to £40million.
