While Arsenal have enjoyed a brilliant summer transfer window so far, signing Declan Rice, Kai Havertz, and Jurrien Timber, the North London giants could be in for a few upsets in the final weeks.
The Gunners are not done in the market and have been heavily linked with two highly-rated players. They are Romeo Lavia and Mohammed Kudus, the Southampton midfield ace and Ajax's versatile attacker.
However, according to the latest reports, Mikel Arteta's side look set to miss out on both players, and to make things worse, they could miss out on the Belgian and Ghanaian talents to their direct competition.
Starting off with Lavia, the former Man City youth player has been garnering interest from England's elites. Chelsea, Liverpool, and Arsenal have all been eyeing the Southampton ace while Manchester United have also been following the 19-year-old.
However, the Reds have stolen a march after seeing an initial $44.5M offer get rejected as Klopp's side are set to make a second bid. Arsenal, meanwhile, are set to stand by and watch this move go through due to Thomas Partey's situation.
The Gunners' interest in Lavia depended on Partey's future and whether the African ace would leave the Emirates Stadium this summer. However, as revealed by Fabrizio Romano, the Ghanaian is set to stay, thus paving the way for Liverpool to pursue Lavia.
Understand Liverpool new formal bid for Roméo Lavia is almost ready — around £42.5m guaranteed fee plus £2.5m add ons up to total £45m package
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) July 26, 2023
Liverpool want to be fast as Chelsea are still interested in Lavia, keeping close eye. Arsenal gone quiet as Thomas could now stay. pic.twitter.com/Lf9g3eHn4s
From one Ghanaian to another, Mohammed Kudus was recently linked with the North London giants as he is a talented player that can start in midfield, both on the right and left, while being able to deputize for Bukayo Saka.
Furthermore, last season's Premier League runners-up have already dealt with Ajax during negotiations for Jurrien Timber and thus boast an excellent relationship with Kudus' current employers. However, Chelsea have stolen a march in this race.
The two London giants both want the Black Stars attacker. However, while Chelsea have significantly trimmed their squad and made space for further incomings, Edu and Co. have shifted focus to outgoings and must make a few sales before moving for Kudus.
This is according to a report by the Independent which claims Ajax value the 22-year-old at roughly $52M. The Blues are also eyeing Moises Caicedo but are still looking for a breakthrough with Brighton for the Ecuadorian.
