What the papers say
Mikel Arteta is reportedly planning to overhaul his Arsenal squad by signing at least four players this summer using potential Champions League income, according to The Times. The Gunners are understood to be confident of beating Chelsea to the signing of England and West Ham midfielder Declan Rice. The 24-year-old is thought to be valued at at about £80 million.
The same newspaper says Arsenal could also renew their interest in Brighton & Hove Albion midfielder Moises Caicedo, 21, as Arteta looks to bring in two central midfielders, a winger and probably a left-back. These signings could be part-funded by the sale of some players, potentially including defender Kieran Tierney, 25.
Elsewhere, the Daily Express says Houssem Aouar is set to join Eintracht Frankfurt on a free transfer this summer, two-and-a-half years after he was the subject of two mega-money bids from Arsenal. The 24-year-old midfielder was once considered to be a top target by both Arteta and Edu.
And West Ham United have joined the clubs that are keen on signing Bristol City teenager Alex Scott, the Daily Mail reports. The 19-year-old midfielder earned plaudits from Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola following his performance against the Premier League champions in the FA Cup on Tuesday night.
Social media round-up
More on Xavier Simons deal. Chelsea are set to accept Hull City bid on permanent transfer — understand Chelsea will have sell on clause included in the agreement 🚨🔵🤝🏻 #CFC
Personal terms are also agreed between Simons and Hull City. pic.twitter.com/tRK8w5c03E
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 1, 2023
Alexis Mac Allister: “At the moment I’m enjoying of my present at Brighton and I’m not thinking about the future”, tells @TyCSports. 🚨🔵🇦🇷 #BHAFC
“I would like my next team to be in the Premier League”, Mac Allister says 👀 pic.twitter.com/jfdoFCA7C4
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) March 1, 2023
Players to watch
Bernardo Silva: Spanish outlet Sport says the 28-year-old Portugal midfielder’s future at Manchester City is “not clear” with Barcelona continuing to monitor his situation.
Khvicha Kvaratskhelia: Gazzetta dello Sport reports Napoli are aiming to tie down the 22-year-old Georgia forward, who has been linked with Chelsea and Newcastle, to a new contract until 2028.
