Arsenal’s transfer strategy this summer has sharpened its focus on bolstering the attacking options following the high-profile £75 million signing of Bruno Guimaraes. Alongside Guimaraes’ arrival, the club is actively pursuing forward targets, with Bradley Barcola emerging as a strong candidate for the left-wing position. Additionally, names such as Julian Alvarez, Kaoru Mitoma, and Endrick have surfaced in transfer discussions, signaling Arsenal’s ambition to inject fresh attacking talent into the squad.
The upcoming friendly against Borussia Dortmund this Sunday at 2pm BST offers a glimpse of Arsenal’s preparations for the new season. However, Arsenal faces a partial availability challenge as key players including Bukayo Saka, Declan Rice, Jason Raya, Eberechi Eze, and Martin Zubimendi remain sidelined. Martin Odegaard might make a brief appearance, providing fans with a chance to see their captain back on the pitch. Meanwhile, Borussia Dortmund will be without Anton, Kobel, and Ryerson for the fixture, but the 17-year-old prospect Kaua Prates could debut, highlighting the German side’s blend of experience and youth.
Transfer Developments and Squad Updates
Guimaraes, who proudly chose the number 39 jersey at Arsenal—a number that holds sentimental value linked to his father’s taxi in Brazil—expressed his commitment to the club, stating he is “ready to give everything” and will “fight for this badge every single day.” His transfer, confirmed by Newcastle United’s manager Matthias Jaissle, was already settled before the midfielder’s departure, with Jaissle acknowledging his inability to alter Guimaraes’ decision.
In the wider transfer market, Arsenal’s interest in Kaoru Mitoma has been emphasized following their failure to secure Vinicius Junior. However, Bradley Barcola remains the primary target for the left-wing slot, despite reported interest from Liverpool.
Meanwhile, Arsenal’s midfield blueprint is facing potential disruption. Reports indicate that Real Madrid is considering a renewed offer for Zubimendi, casting uncertainty over his future at the club after Guimaraes’ arrival.
On the defensive front, Arsenal’s direct rivals Tottenham Hotspur have made it clear they will not entertain offers for Cristian Romero, according to football journalist Fabrizio Romano. Instead, Romero is attracting attention from Atletico Madrid, who are actively negotiating and preparing a second bid to secure the defender’s services.