According to reports, the agreement is expected to involve a transfer fee in the range of €40m-€45m (£34.4m-£38.7m), along with additional bonus payments. This potential acquisition highlights Arsenal's determination to bolster their defensive options for the upcoming season.
Caicedo's Price Tag Revealed
Meanwhile, Arsenal has been made aware of the potential cost of acquiring Moises Caicedo. Recent reports suggest that Chelsea is prepared to make a significant effort to secure Caicedo's signature, as the player himself has expressed a desire to move to Stamford Bridge.
Sources indicate that a deal worth £80 million, with an additional £10 million in performance-based add-ons, is within the realm of possibility. Interestingly, those close to Caicedo argue that his valuation should not surpass the amount Real Madrid paid for Aurelien Tchouameni (£86 million). Coincidentally, Tchouameni himself might be subject to a transfer this summer.
Odegaard Guides Arteta in Rice Pursuit
Furthermore, Arsenal captain Martin Odegaard has provided guidance to manager Mikel Arteta regarding the potential signing of Declan Rice. In the days or weeks to come, Rice will face a crucial decision regarding his future and the club he will represent during the prime years of his career.
Odegaard revealed that he had a conversation with Arteta via Zoom, during which the manager outlined the club's vision and ambitions. Despite Arsenal's lower league position at the time of the meeting, Odegaard expressed his confidence in Arteta's persuasive abilities, stating, "I challenge anyone to come away from a meeting with Arteta and not believe everything he tells you."
The Gunners' pursuit of these high-profile targets showcases their determination to reinforce the squad ahead of the new season and compete at the highest level. Fans eagerly await further developments as Arsenal aims to solidify their position among the top contenders in English football.