The Different Knock 🏆

Julian Alvarez - From my last update, every single point still remains true - Arteta sees Julian as a major marquee transformational signing - There are direct fresh contacts between the ownership at Arsenal and Atleti regarding a possible transfer. There is still a gap in the valuation of the Argentine. Story with @LucaBendoni - Again, respect to every journalist and their work, but I remain adamant that the player is open to a move to North London IF his dream move to Barca fails - Atleti remain adamant they will not sell to Barca but my understanding is Barca will engage in talks for one final attempt post World Cup. - A deal remains difficult but it has not deterred Arsenal from trying to position themselves for an opportunity to sign a top tier forward should Atleti sanction a sale. - Berta is currently in the capital of Madrid with his family. One source said he has also taken the opportunity to meet with Atleti officials directly but I am waiting on further confirmation on this. Bruno G - My understanding is club to club talks have NOT taken place except a phone call from Newcastle asking Arsenal about their stance, which didn’t clarify anything between the parties. - Berta is still wanting Kia to handle all the negotiations until / if a fair valuation can be reached between BOTH parties. - Newcastle are aiming to secure a fee within the £80-£85m range as a minimum - Bruno is fully sold on the project and is awaiting his agents and Kia to handle the situation respectfully. Rogers - Currently I am not obliged to update on this current file, when I can I will be sure to explain things in detail. - People at Arsenal maintain he is the top target for the winger / central attacker role - For now, all I can say is Spurs showed some interest but as of today Morgan’s focus is Arsenal if a deal can be agreed Others - I saw reports about the UAE interest in Norgaard, my understanding is that the player wants to stay in London for at least another year if he is able to. - I also asked contacts at Fenerebace about Jesus who say currently there is no major interest as of TODAY. - People around the Tzolis deal on both sides expect it to progress soon.

🚨⚪️⚫️ BREAKING: Leandro Trossard to Besiktas, here we go! Deal approved right now by Belgian winger. Arsenal receive €18m plus €2m add-ons as #AFC already accepted terms last week. Trossard will be in Istanbul tomorrow night for medical and contract signing. 🦅

🚨 Arsenal turned down Al Ittihad verbal offer for Leandro Trossard yesterday: loan (€5m), buy obligation (€20-25m). Informal bid + #AFC made clear not for sale. Long-term deal, key part of squad & no chance to replace @TheAthleticFC post @FabrizioRomano nytimes.com/athletic/57392…

GO AGAIN I've spent the last few weeks looking at the Arsenal season (and analytics from @Gradient_Sports) to help inform what we do next: six strengths to fortify, five tangible ways to improve, and what it all means for the summer business. Link in replies.