Arsenal transfer news: Gunners target dismisses links as Emile Smith Rowe demand made
Arsenal are set to step up their summer transfer plans following as Euro 2024 enters its knockout stages.
The Gunners are hoping to make a number of additions as Mikel Arteta looks to finally overcome Manchester City in the Premier League title race. But Arteta may have to wait until the knockouts are over before pursuing his top targets.
One of them, Johan Bakayoko, has insisted his full focus is on the tournament, despite barely playing for Belgium so far. Elsewhere, Arsenal have slapped a £25million price tag on Emile Smith Rowe as they prepare to sell the outcast.
And Italy's Euro 2024 hero Riccardo Calafiori has emerged as a target as his potential move to Juventus stalls. Here, Mirror Football rounds up all the latest Arsenal transfer news.
Bakayoko dismisses links
PSV Eindhoven star Johan Bakayoko has dismissed rumours linking him with a move to Arsenal this summer. Bakayoko is currently representing Belgium at Euro 2024 and has insisted his full focus is on the tournament.
"I never said I want to leave PSV, others have done that in my place. If something comes up, you have to think about it, but now is not the time. I’m not thinking about a transfer here, I’m thinking about how I can do my best here,” he said.
“I have to be honest. I’m more concerned with playing more here than a transfer. I’m thinking about how I can do my best even more or prove myself to the coach even more. That transfer, that’s for after [the Euros]."
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Euro 2024 hero monitored
LEIPZIG, GERMANY - JUNE 24: Riccardo Calafiori of Italy reacts during the UEFA EURO 2024 group stage match between Croatia and Italy at Football Stadium Leipzig on June 24, 2024 in Leipzig, Germany.(Photo by Chris Brunskill/Fantasista/Getty Images)
Arsenal are monitoring Bologna defender Riccardo Calafiori after his impressive Euro 2024 campaign. Italy were knocked out by Switzerland on Saturday, but Calafiori caught the eye in the centre of defence.
The 22-year-old has attracted the interest of Juventus, with their new boss Thiago Motta having coached Calafiori at Bologna last term. However, according to Caught Offside, that deal is stalling, with the two clubs having a poor relationship.
That has opened the door to Arsenal, with Bologna now hoping a bidding war will take place for the defender. The Gunners are said to be keeping a close eye on Calafiori's situation, though they have not firmed up their interest quite yet.
Smith Rowe price tag revealed
Arsenal have slapped a £25m price tag on Emile Smith Rowe as they prepare to listen to offers for the academy graduate. The midfielder has struggled to claim a regular place in the team since signing a long-term contract back in 2022.
He was again a bit-part player last season, making just 13 Premier League appearances. Injuries have stunted his development and it appears that the Gunners are ready to let him leave the Emirates.
According to The Sun, Arsenal will accept a bid of £25m for the 23-year-old, with Crystal Palace the current frontrunners for him. It is thought the Eagles will make their move for Smith Rowe if Michael Olise leaves Selhurst Park this summer.
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