Arsenal transfer news LIVE: Latest updates and rumours from the Emirates (2025)

43 minutes agoBy Raphael Adelugba

Merino up top the Wright move

Arsenal legend Ian Wright has suggested that Mikel Merino is a strong fit for the 'number nine' role he's been asked to fill in recent weeks, even bringing attributes that Kai Havertz doesn't.

"What we've seen is that he's a very intelligent player," the retired star said while a pundit on the Premier League's Matchday Live post-game coverage.

"When you watch him, and he's linking up the play, by the time [the ball] does get to him – I watched it again when they played PSV – he's so composed and knows where he's passing it.

"That's exactly what Arsenal need in respect of keeping the ball up in that [attacking] third.

"It's something we don't do well because we haven't got a focal point. Kai Havertz isn't that player either, where he links the play how Merino can do it.

"Merino does it in a way where he can hold it and you can go and join him. Then, all of a sudden, we’re playing a bit further up."

Today, 01:15By Raphael Adelugba

Arsenal move ahead of rivals in the race for Thuram

The striker talk around Arsenal rumbles on.

Mikel Arteta finds himself praising other attacks instead of his own, as he did against Chelsea on Sunday and will aim to put all the number nine discourse bid come the summer.

Football Insider reports that the Gunners alongside Chelsea have moved ahead of Liverpool in the race to sign Marcus Thuram.

The France international has 13 league goals this season and with that comes a hefty £71M release clause in his contract.

17th Mar 2025, 23:45By Raphael Adelugba

Osimhen Prem-bound according to teammate

The Victor Osimhen secret might be out.

The on-loan Napoli striker has re-found his goal-scoring touch at Galatasaray, who look set to win the Turkish League, in what could be described as a year-sabbatical away from top tier European football.

With relationships in Naples soured, it looks all but certain Osimhen will leave the Serie A club, and according to his Nigeria teammate, that destination is locked and loaded.

In an exclusive with talkSPORT, Nigeria captain William Troost-Ekong is likely to end up in the Premier League next season.

“I couldn’t see him playing there for another season, or anywhere else but the Premier League next season," the former Watford defender said.

17th Mar 2025, 21:45By Raphael Adelugba

'Notable player' for sale?

The production of youth might be driving the newly reported summer idea for Arsenal's upcoming window.

According to The Athletic, the Gunners are prepared to sell a 'notable player' in a bid to raise funds for summer arrivals.

17th Mar 2025, 20:35By Joshua Jones

Trialling youngsters

Arsenal named two trialists on the bench for Saturday's 4-3 Under-18s win over Leicester.

Brighton's Ronnie Gorman came on the young Gunners with ten minutes to go while Jaiden Owen of Norwich was an unused sub.

The North Londoners have also had left-backs Lennon Patterson and Marcell Washington on trial recently.

Patterson subsequently signed for Sheffield United while Washington remains on trial from Chelsea.

17th Mar 2025, 19:50By Joshua Jones

'You clown'

Simon Jordan labelled Martin Keown a "clown" in their latest talkSPORT bust-up.

The rivals clashed live on the airwaves as they discussed Liverpool's nightmare week - crashing out of the Champions League before losing the Carabao Cup final.

Keown said: "If this was Arsenal losing two major games like that, you'd say they bottled it.

"They [Liverpool] have just gone out of the Champions League and they've just lost 2-1. You'd be saying Arsenal have bottled it.

"You would because that would be the mischievous part to your personality."

In a lengthy back and forth, Jordan hit back: "So let's get it right, you've just asked the question, answered it yourself, created an added debate with yourself.

"I would not suggest, if Arsenal won bugger all, which is what they do do right now, I would say they bottled it. If Liverpool lose the league now, what do you think I'll say?"

Keown asked: "What is the difference between what Liverpool have done this week?"

And Jordan responded: "Because they’re going to win something unlike your lot you bloody clown. You need to put a bow tie on and a squirty flower. It makes no sense."

17th Mar 2025, 19:00By Joshua Jones

Countdown is on

It is the international break for the next two weeks before the action returns with the FA Cup next weekend.

With Arsenal already out, their next game is a London derby at home to Fulham.

They then travel to Goodison Park for the final time before hosting the first leg against Real Madrid on April 8.

17th Mar 2025, 18:20By Joshua Jones

Sak gonna be back

The noises come out of Arsenal are that Bukayo Saka is making good progress in his return from hamstring surgery.

The winger last played on December 21 but Arsenal fans may not have to wait long to see him back in action.

On returning immediately after the international break, Arteta said: "He’s got a good chance, yeah.

"He's getting closer, he’s stepping up and making very good progress I would say.”

Riccardo Calafiori added: “Everyone will be happy if he comes back (for the upcoming Real Madrid tie), he’s a top player and he will make the difference.

“You can see when he’s on the pitch that he makes a big difference. He’s an important player for us, he’s a top guy as well. He’s going to do everything to come back for Real Madrid.”

17th Mar 2025, 17:20By Joshua Jones

Rooney's Heavenly assessment

Wayne Rooney reckons Manchester United snatching Ayden Heaven from Arsenal was a "real coup" for the Red Devils.

Heaven came through the academy at Arsenal but joined United in January - and has already impressed in the first team.

Rooney said: "I think he is a real coup for Manchester United.

"He looks like he has been there for years – and that is the biggest compliment I can give him.

“He has come in from Arsenal so he knows what it is like to be at a big club. I think that will have helped him.

“He doesn’t look like he is playing with pressure, he looks calm, he’s composed, he gives them good balance with his left foot, he looks quick and he looks like he likes defending.”

17th Mar 2025, 16:34By Joshua Jones

Myles all smiles

Sticking with Lewis-Skelly, he has arrived at St George's Park for his maiden senior England camp.

And he received a warm welcome from his new manager and team-mates.

17th Mar 2025, 15:46By Tony Robertson

Lewis-Skelly reveals England reaction

Myles Lewis-Skelly's reaction to his England call-up has been revealed.

The teenager said: "I’m buzzing. Honesty I was so elated, just shouting around my house!

“Obviously I'm excited for what's coming up, but you’ve always got to stay locked in on the present and not get too attached to the feeling that’s coming later down the line."

17th Mar 2025, 15:15By Tony Robertson

Body language expert says Arteta is 'feeling pressure' as Arsenal boss

Body language expert Richard Stanton believes Mikel Arteta is feeling the pressure as Arsenal boss, and is giving hints away through his gestures.

Speaking to Spin Genie, Stanton said: "If you look back at what we’ve seen from Arteta, he doesn’t make these sorts of gestures very often, so I think this is quite a significant moment in his career.

"This looks to be one of the most emotional times that he’s been through.

“That sort of humming gesture and the shame, he’s thinking about how this impacts on him, his persona, his reputation and whatever values and beliefs he holds. I think what’s happened is now going against all that.

“We’re looking at shame and anger that results like this one are making him look bad, not in a selfish way necessarily but because the buck stops with him.

"When you want the ground to open up and swallow you, that’s the impression Arteta was giving off in that moment.

“And it is significant because I don’t think he has experienced too many moments like this in his management career, and that’s why we look at baseline behaviours and any deviations from them, because he hasn’t made too many of these gestures in the past.”

17th Mar 2025, 14:45By Tony Robertson

Thomas Tuchel strongest XI includes two Arsenal stars

Thomas Tuchel's highest-rated starting XI includes two Arsenal stars, according to statistical analysis by OLBG.

The formation is set out in a 3-4-3 shape, which then sees Declan Rice playing in midfield while teenager Myles Lewis-Skelly lines up at left wing-back.

Rice has a rating of 7.05 out of 10 compared to Lewis-Skelly's 6.49.

17th Mar 2025, 14:13By Tony Robertson

Arsenal ratings v Chelsea

Arsenal collected three points at the Emirates with a comfortable display as they fight to keep their fading title hopes alive.

Mikel Merino broke the deadlock with a gorgeous looping header that nestled into the net at the unmarkedChelseaback-post.

The Spaniard’s goal, however, wasn’t enough to cover up a poor performance in front of goal for the Gunners.

Gabriel MartinelliandLeandro Trossardmissed chances and should have sentArsenalinto the half-time interval at least two goals up.

Marc Cucurellanearly equalised for the Blues after aDavid Rayahowler as the keeper spilled his volley and the ball nearly rolled in at the back post.

Two ugly fouls fromWesleyFofana could have both seen red, but somehow, the Chelsea defender went unpunished.

The first, a clear stamp on Declan Rice’s hamstring after bundling him over. And the second, a reckless lunge that caught Trossard late on the shin.

After sailing through to theChampions Leaguequarter-finals with a 9-3 aggregate win overPSV Eindhoven, the Gunners reduced the gap to 12 points at the top of the table but still lacked the attacking instinct a true number nine brings.

Click below to see how SunSport's Conor Jones rated Arsenal's performances in North London.

ARSENAL RATINGS Merino shines but Martin Odegaard cuts frustrated figure and Saliba shaky

17th Mar 2025, 12:48By Tony Robertson

How 11th place in the Premier League could get into Europe

Premier League could have as many as 11 teams competing in Europe next season.

Newcastlesecured a place in theEuropa Conference Leagueon Sunday afterwinning the Carabao Cupat Wembley.

The Magpies beatLiverpool2-1 to end their 70-year trophy drought and take home the first piece of silverware on offer this season.

Although Conference League qualification is already in the bag,Eddie Howeand Co will be hoping to go one better come the end of the Premier League campaign.

Newcastle currently sit sixth in thePremtable, just one point behind fifth-placedManchester City.

As things stand, five clubs are set to earnChampions Leaguefootball due to the performance of English teams in Europe this term.

EURO STARS How 11th in the Prem could get into Europe thanks to Newcastle's Carabao Cup win

17th Mar 2025, 12:23By Tony Robertson

Arsenal loan watch: Vieira shines

Fabio Vieira is shining on loan at FC Porto after scoring in the team's latest 2-0 win.

It is the 24-year-old's third goal in five games, while he has also grabbed two assists in that period.

17th Mar 2025, 11:43By Tony Robertson

Arsenal urged to sign ex-Chelsea star

Joe Cole has urged Arsenal to sign ex-Chelsea star Callum Hudson-Odoi.

Cole said on The Dressing Room podcast: “I’ve been so happy for him. He had a really bad injury and it took him while to get back to where he is now.

“He feels like he can drive past players again. You know what my advice to him would be? There might be some big clubs sniffing around for him but he’s playing football and is happy and enjoying himself.

“There might be big clubs in stature like Arsenal or Man City having a look. But look at what you’ve got right now.

“There’s something special happening at Forest and when you’re playing and you’re happy it’s massive.”

Arsenal have been looking for a capable deputy to Saka for many years before stumbling on Ethan Nwaneri, though his future may lay more centrally.

Hudson-Odoi is also able to play on either wing which would make him an ideal addition.

17th Mar 2025, 11:20By Tony Robertson

Chelsea fans fuming after spotting Maresca’s gesture to Timber

Chelsea fans were not impressed with Enzo Maresca after he was "disrespected" by Arsenal's Jurrien Timber.

Blues head coach Maresca, 45, watched his side fall to a disappointing 1-0 defeat at the Emirates.

Maresca and Timber were involved in an incident during the closing stages of the match in North London.

The Arsenal full-back was caught on camera leaning in and telling Maresca on the sideline to: "Try harder, try harder."

Maresca responded with his mouth covered, before Timber cheekily held out his own hand.

The Chelsea boss shook it, with play resuming deep into stoppage time on the field.

HAD A MARE Eagle-eyed Chelsea fans fuming after spotting Maresca's gesture to Timber

17th Mar 2025, 10:21By Tony Robertson

Dominance over Chelsea continues

After yesterday's 1-0 win, Arsenal are now unbeaten in their last seven meetings with Chelsea.

They have won five of those clashes at an aggregate score of 17-6.

17th Mar 2025, 08:44By Connor Greaves

Saka has "good chance" of returning after the international break

Mikel Arteta has provided an update on the potential return of winger Bukayo Saka.

The 23-year-old required surgery on his hamstring after he sustained a major injury during the Gunners' 5-1 win over Crystal Palace in December.

Speaking after Arsenal's 1-0 win over Chelsea on Sunday, Mikel Arteta said that Saka has a "good chance" of featuring in April.

17th Mar 2025, 07:51By Connor Greaves

Williams contact

Arsenal have reportedly made contact with Nico Williams' representatives over a potential move this summer.

According to reports, the Athletic Bilbao forward is one of Mikel Arteta's top targets.

Williams reportedly has a released clause in his contract, which is said to be somewhere between £48million and £67m.

17th Mar 2025, 07:00By Jon Boon

Arteta on Merino's striker role

“And we know that, that was the emergency situation that we are in at the moment, but the way he’s approaching it is incredible.

“He wants to understand everything, he wants to learn from it, he’s very critical of himself all the time and at the end, the reality is that he’s winning football matches for us, which is incredible. He’s never played in that position before in his life.”

17th Mar 2025, 06:00By Jon Boon

Odegaard's Saka notes

Martin Odegaard has revealed more about Bukayo Saka's progress from injury in his programme notes for the Chelsea game.

He wrote: "He’s around us every day at Sobha, and he’s so determined to come back as soon as he can.

"I know what it’s like when you feel you are so close to being able to play, but not quite there, you feel you are ready.

"But he just has to make sure he takes his time and is fully sharp when he does get back out on the pitch. He’s getting closer, and we want to see him back as well of course because losing his qualities is a big miss for any team."

17th Mar 2025, 04:00By Jon Boon

Stadium plans

ARSENAL are exploring ways to expand the Emirates' capacity after being approached by an architect, reports claim.

It comes asPremier League rivals are movingquickly to expand their grounds or building new ones to supercharge financial revenue.

Arsenalare now mulling over their options as they attempt to keep up, according toThe Mail.

Talks are reportedly at an early stage, with a number of potential options being considered.

The cost and the length of the project are the main factors being discussed byArsenalchiefs, while the impact on the surrounding area is also a major factor.

17th Mar 2025, 02:00By Jon Boon

Hilarious Arteta

Mikel Arteta kept a Sky Sports reporter on his toes by pretending to walk out of his post-match interview.

The Spaniard was feeling in a comical mood following his side's 1-0 win over Chelsea.

See the hilarious video in our story below.

ARTFUL DODGER Sky Sports panel in stitches after Mikel Arteta's stunt in live TV interview