Arsenal are about to find out if they have won the race for Norwegian wonderkid Sverre Nypan.
The 18-year-old Rosenberg midfielder, represented by super agent Rafaela Pimenta, has carefully considered his next move amid secret talks with a series of elite European clubs.
A final decision by the player and his entourage will now be communicated to the relevant parties within a few weeks. Arsenal are seen as one of the top contenders for his signature, although there is also strong interest from abroad.
Furthermore, Manchester United are among Nypan's long list of admirers, but Norwegian sources have indicated that a move to Old Trafford currently appears unlikely. The Rosenberg star is expected to cost more than £10million, although the Scandinavian team have yet to receive any official bids.
The feeling in Norway is that interested clubs will first wait for clarity on the player's decision before opening formal talks with Rosenberg. Arsenal believe his takeover would be quite a coup given his potential and the other clubs interested.
The presence of Norwegian captain Martin Odegaard as Arsenal captain could give Mikel Arteta an edge over their rivals. The Gunners are working hard to improve their options ahead of what will be a transitional summer, whatever happens in the remainder of 2024/2025.
Arsenal are at the front of the queue for Martin Zubimendi and are prepared to pay his full £51million release clause. The Spanish star turned down a move to Liverpool for the same fee before the start of the season, but he could line up alongside his former team-mate Mikel Merino next season.
Ahead of Saturday's Premier League match against Aston Villa, Arteta addressed his club's needs in the transfer market. “We have certain situations where contracts expire,” Arteta said, referring to Thomas Partey and Jorginho, whose current deals expire on June 30.
“We can extend those contracts as we have done in the past. We are always actively developing the squad and understanding what the players want to do when they complete our contract together, and we have to be prepared.”
Asked about additions, he added: “At the moment we don't have any. We are actively trying to find the best possible solution, but we will have to wait and see what we can do. “Obviously we have lost two big players for us on the front line and we need some support there.”
In addition to midfield, Arsenal are hoping to strengthen their forward line this month after losing Bukayo Saka and Gabriel Jesus to serious injuries. Saka tore his hamstring, while Jesus suffered a significant knee injury, exacerbating their struggles in front of goal.
Comments