With the January transfer window firmly shut, the lack of major activity from Arsenal has seen speculation begin to turn toward their plans for the summer. While Mikel Arteta's squad remains in the Champions League, their domestic cup exits and fading Premier League title hopes mean that preparations for the next campaign are already underway.
The headlines coming out of the Emirates Stadium include links to former Tottenham Hotspur talisman Harry Kane and the future of Oleksandr Zinchenko. This article will go into detail on all of the latest Arsenal transfer news and what that means for these two high-profile players.
Could Harry Kane Make a Sensational Move to Arsenal?
But perhaps one of the most intriguing transfer rumors has to do with England captain Harry Kane. The former Tottenham striker, currently plying his trade at Bayern Munich, has been urged to make a switch to Arsenal. Former Gunners star Paul Merson has urged Kane to make the controversial switch in order to break Alan Shearer's all-time Premier League goalscoring record.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Merson said:
"I keep on saying Isak, but there's not a lot around. I'd go for Harry Kane. I'd pay the £60-odd million for Harry Kane. I know it's not my money. Like Sol Campbell didn't (go to Arsenal)? If he thinks he can beat Shearer's record at Tottenham, but I don't see the point coming back to Tottenham. There's no point just coming back just to beat that, and I don't think he'd have as much of a chance of beating that than he would at Arsenal.
The transfer of Kane to Bayern Munich last summer had been talked about for years in relation to his Tottenham future. However, it would now appear there is a release clause in his contract at the Allianz Arena, which might open the door for Premier League clubs to bid. If Arsenal did make a bid, it would go down as one of the most astonishing transfers in footballing history, given how intrinsically linked Kane is with Spurs.
Would Kane Fit Arsenal's System?
A move to Arsenal could be a dream scenario for Kane if he is dead serious about surpassing Shearer's 260-goal record. For now, Arsenal's attacking line lacks a world-class striker who guarantees goals every season. While Gabriel Jesus has proved to be a dynamic and hardworking forward, he does not have the elite goalscoring ability of Kane.
Adding Kane to Arsenal's roster would give Mikel Arteta a complete striker-one comfortable dropping deep, linking play, and most importantly, finishing chances with ruthless efficiency. With creative players like Martin Ødegaard, Bukayo Saka, and Gabriel Martinelli supporting him, Kane could flourish in an Arsenal shirt.
Could Arsenal Afford Kane?
Bayern Munich would want a high price for Kane, and this is also bearing in mind that he is still one of the finest strikers in world football. If these reports of a release clause are true, a bid in the region of £60-70 million might be enough to tempt the German giants into selling. Of course, Arsenal would have to navigate the finances carefully. They need to ensure they do not go out of the realms of FFP regulations.
Of course, that might not be easy to do, but signing Kane would be a statement-one that would make Arsenal legitimate title contenders next season.
Oleksandr Zinchenko's Arsenal Future in Doubt
The other major headline concerning Arsenal was the player Oleksandr Zinchenko. The Ukrainian left-back, moved in 2022 from Manchester City, seemed destined to leave the doors open of the Emirates. Borussia Dortmund and Atletico Madrid reportedly showed a serious interest to take his signature this January. Yet, both failed to write formal offers to secure his transfer.
Why Stay for Zinchenko?
According to Mail Online, despite interest from top European clubs, Arsenal did not get any official bids for Zinchenko; the club had been open to his sale but only on a permanent transfer. In the end, no deal came, meaning the versatile defender is still at the club—at least for now.
What Next for Zinchenko?
With his deal running until the summer of 2026, the future for Zinchenko remains under question. Considering that he had been an essential part of the Arteta army, there had been speculations that Arsenal will look for someone better as replacement due to several defensive weaknesses exhibited by him, and the Gunners may take advantage of such a situation with the emergence of Jakub Kiwior in the mix plus the reliability of Takehiro Tomiyasu during the summer window.
Should Arsenal decide to let go of the 27-year-old, they would ask for a huge sum of money. Experienced, with good technical ability and the ability to operate across various departments, Zinchenko would be a catch for any team seeking to build its defensive and midfield stocks.
Arsenal Transfer Strategy for Summer
While the winter window was a bit quiet, Arsenal will most definitely move in the summer. And as things stand, a top-class striker, a defensive midfielder, and reinforcements at left-back are likely to be prioritized.
Potential Striker Targets
Other than the highly unlikely yet mouth-watering signing of Kane himself, Arsenal have been linked with the following forwards:
Alexander Isak (Newcastle United) - The Swedish forward has been in feisty form, and his pace coupled with finishing instates him as an ideal target.
Victor Osimhen - One of the hottest properties in Europe, Osimhen may command a fee upwards of £100 million.
Dusan Vlahovic (Juventus) - Arsenal previously pursued Vlahovic before he joined Juventus, and they may well revive their interest.
Midfield and Defensive Reinforcements
Midfield is also an area that needs reinforcement at Arsenal, especially with Thomas Partey's constant niggles being a big issue. Targets for midfield could be:
Martin Zubimendi - Real Sociedad - Long-term target who has the potential to be a fitting partner for Declan Rice.
Douglas Luiz - Aston Villa - The Brazilian midfielder is now in his third year since reportedly being wanted by Arsenal.
Ferland Mendy (Real Madrid) - A solid defensive option with experience at the highest level.
Marc Cucurella (Chelsea) - Although he has struggled at Chelsea, he remains a talented player with attacking intent.
Conclusion
For the crucial summer now in store, Arsenal have gigantic decisions to be made on signings and departures. Harry Kane's potential transfer would be perhaps one of the most astonishing things ever to occur in football; at the same time, decisions are yet to be made regarding Zinchenko.
Mikel Arteta will be keen to add to his squad with the right signings to keep Arsenal competitive in the Premier League and Champions League next season. With a top striker, a strong midfield signing, and reinforcements in the back, the Gunners might just be gearing up for their most exciting season yet.
Keep tuned for more Arsenal transfer updates this summer!