Arsenal’s summer plans continue to develop across the transfer market and the World Cup.
Morgan Rogers remains among Mikel Arteta’s leading attacking targets, while Kepa Arrizabalaga’s future has become less certain following Illan Meslier’s arrival.
Bukayo Saka could also have a major role for England when they face Argentina in Wednesday’s World Cup semi-final.
Manzambi move may affect Arsenal’s Rogers pursuit
Aston Villa are moving closer to signing Johan Manzambi from Freiburg in a deal reportedly worth around £49m.
The Switzerland international can operate in central midfield or further forward. His arrival has therefore encouraged suggestions that Villa may become more willing to discuss Rogers’ future.
However, there has been no indication from Villa that Manzambi has been signed specifically to replace the England international.
Sky Sports’ latest Aston Villa transfer coverage reports that Rogers is keen on joining Arsenal, although Villa remain in a strong negotiating position.
The 23-year-old is under contract until 2031 and has previously been valued at up to £130m. Arsenal’s level of interest has been placed closer to £90m or £100m.
Andrea Berta continues to view Rogers as an option who could strengthen several areas of Arteta’s attack. He can play from the left, behind a striker or as an attacking midfielder.
Christos Tzolis and Bradley Barcola are also being considered, giving Arsenal alternatives if Villa refuse to lower their demands.
As Read Arsenal examined in its recent attacking rebuild analysis, Rogers would represent the more versatile and expensive addition.
Manzambi’s arrival may create greater competition at Villa Park, but Arsenal still need a significant change in Villa’s valuation before a deal becomes realistic.
Kepa future uncertain after Meslier arrival
Kepa’s position has come under greater scrutiny since Arsenal completed the free transfer of Meslier.
David Raya remains Arteta’s first-choice goalkeeper. Meslier’s arrival gives Arsenal another experienced option and allows Tommy Setford to leave on loan.
Reports have linked Kepa with Juventus and Napoli as the 31-year-old considers whether to seek more regular football.
Arsenal are not believed to be actively forcing him out. The club would, though, consider a suitable offer if Kepa decides he wants to leave.
His previous £5m exit clause is reported to have expired, meaning interested clubs would now need to negotiate directly with Arsenal.
The Gunners would expect to recover more than the fee paid to Chelsea last summer. Kepa made most of his appearances in domestic cup competitions during his first season in north London.
Sky Sports reported after Meslier’s arrival that Kepa was still expected to remain as Raya’s deputy at that stage, although uncertainty continued around his longer-term position.
Arsenal can therefore afford to wait. They already have sufficient goalkeeper depth and do not need to accept a reduced offer.
Saka waits on England semi-final selection
Saka is available for England’s semi-final against Argentina at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
The Arsenal winger has managed an Achilles problem throughout the tournament, leading Thomas Tuchel to control his workload carefully.
He came off the bench during England’s extra-time victory over Norway and is competing with Arsenal team-mate Noni Madueke for a place on the right.
Saka has not yet been officially confirmed as a starter. Jamie Carragher has argued that Tuchel should select him ahead of Madueke, with England one victory away from their first men’s World Cup final since 1966. Sky Sports has outlined the selection debate.
Declan Rice, Eberechi Eze and Madueke are also available. Arsenal already have Mikel Merino, Martin Zubimendi and David Raya through to Sunday’s final with Spain.
Read Arsenal’s semi-final preview covers the club’s four England players and the fitness issues Arteta will continue to monitor.
Rogers and Kepa remain transfer situations without immediate conclusions. Saka’s next decision will arrive much sooner when Tuchel names his starting line-up in Atlanta.
