Football News Update: Arsenal Accelerate Negotiations for Baris Alper Yilmaz Amid Premier League Rivals’ Interest
In the latest football transfer news, Arsenal are reportedly “accelerating negotiations” as they look to beat their Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur in the race to sign Baris Alper Yilmaz. The Gunners have been active in the summer transfer window, having already invested heavily to secure the permanent signing of David Raya from Brentford and the acquisition of Italy international Riccardo Calafiori from Bologna.
Mikel Arteta’s Ambitious Transfer Plans
Mikel Arteta’s side is expected to complete a couple more signings before the summer transfer window closes later this month. While a “fresh twist” has threatened their deal with Real Sociedad for Spain international Mikel Merino, Arsenal are now reportedly stepping up their efforts to sign Yilmaz.
Baris Alper Yilmaz’s Impressive Form
The 24-year-old winger shone for Galatasaray last season, scoring seven goals and providing 12 assists in his 55 appearances across all competitions. Yilmaz’s impressive performances at the recent Euro 2024, where he played the full 90 minutes in each of Turkey’s five matches as they reached the quarter-final stage, have also not gone unnoticed.
“Earlier this summer, Yilmaz was linked with a move to Liverpool as a potential long-term replacement for Mo Salah. However, it now appears that Arsenal are leading the race to secure his services.”
Arsenal’s Accelerating Negotiations
A report from Turkey claims that the Gunners are “accelerating negotiations” and that the transfer could be completed at any moment, with the final details being discussed. The report adds that Arsenal are expected to pay around 20 million Euros to secure the transfer of Baris Alper Yilmaz, who is under contract with Galatasaray until 2027. Tottenham Hotspur and Brighton are also said to be interested in the talented attacker.
Potential Mikel Merino Transfer
Regarding the potential move of Mikel Merino to the Emirates, the reports from Spain suggest that the centre-midfielder is “waiting” for Arsenal, who are yet to make a final decision on his potential transfer. Real Sociedad is asking for around 30 million Euros for Merino, and the Gunners are expected to make a move for him soon, as they tend not to overlap deals.
With the new signings and ongoing negotiations, Arsenal are positioning themselves for a strong start to the 2024/25 Premier League season, as they aim to build on their recent successes and challenge for the top honors in the domestic and European competitions.
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