Arsenal Transfer Deal Called Off Despite £73m Bid Reports

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that an expected Arsenal transfer will not go ahead, despite reports suggesting a £73 million bid was being prepared.

Arsenal’s current transfer focus remains firmly on strengthening their attack. The club has already agreed personal terms with both Noni Madueke and Viktor Gyokeres.

While Arsenal are still considering whether to submit a formal bid for Chelsea winger Madueke, negotiations with Sporting CP for Gyokeres are progressing well, with a club-to-club agreement reportedly close.

In addition to those targets, Arsenal are also monitoring Crystal Palace star Eberechi Eze and Real Madrid forward Rodrygo. However, Rodrygo’s future is unlikely to be resolved until after Real Madrid complete their Club World Cup commitments.

According to highly respected journalist David Ornstein, Arsenal’s pursuit of a high-profile left winger depends entirely on the future of Gabriel Martinelli. Speaking on The Athletic FC Podcast, Ornstein explained that Arsenal have long aimed to strengthen their options on the left flank, but that any move for a top winger is unlikely unless Martinelli departs.

“Arsenal have always been keen to add on the left wing,” Ornstein noted. “However, with Gabriel Martinelli already there, they’re unlikely to make a move unless he leaves. If he were to leave, then you could definitely see them targeting a top left-sided winger.”

For now, Arsenal’s attention appears to be on reinforcing their squad without selling key players, though the transfer window remains unpredictable as negotiations continue behind the scenes.