Arsenal have first summer transfer confirmed as William Saliba fears emerge
It's crunch time for Arsenal and nearly the biggest night of their season.
After slumping to three successive draws, most recently Friday's 3-3 thriller with rock-bottom Southampton, the Gunners make the journey to face Premier League title rivals Manchester City on Wednesday. Mikel Arteta is attempting to keep a lid on his team's emotional state, having seen his stars wilt under the pressure in recent weeks.
Although they're five points ahead of City, the reigning champions have played two games less. Arsenal are being told by pundits, supporters and even striker Gabriel Jesus to go to Manchester and win - or else their hopes will be in tatters. There is, however, still plenty going on aside from Wednesday's potential title decider.
Here's a round-up of the latest news from the Emirates.
Maitland-Niles confirms exit
Ainsley Maitland-Niles will leave Arsenal this summer, the 25-year-old has confirmed. Maitland-Niles, who's been a Gunner since the age of six, has spent the season on loan at Southampton and could remain with the Saints once his contract back at the Emirates expires in June.
Mikel Arteta's dream Arsenal line up as last-gasp January transfers are secured
"It's been a great journey [at Arsenal] but it has come to an end now. It's time for a fresh start and to find a new home," the defender, who can also play in midfield, is quoted as saying by The Athletic. "Southampton is a great club to be at and progress and get some minutes under my belt. Of course, if they were to make an offer, I'll be more than happy to stay."
Read the full story HERE.
Ainsley Maitland-Niles will leave Arsenal when his contract expires in June (Robin Jones/Getty Images)Arsenal fear Saliba's season is over
Fears are growing at Arsenal that William Saliba may not play again this season. The French centre-back, 22, has already been on the sidelines for six weeks after suffering a back injury during the Gunners' Europa League last-16 defeat at home to Sporting Lisbon on March 16.
As Arsenal's hopes of him being available for Wednesday's trip to Manchester fade, The Mail are reporting that club medics fear a long-term absence if Saliba is rushed back too soon. The France international is willing to play through the pain barrier but he risks a lengthy spell out of action later down the line.
Read the full story HERE.
William Saliba remains sidelined and Arsenal's fears are growing (Stuart MacFarlane/Arsenal FC via Getty Images)Have your say! Who should Arsenal sign in the summer transfer window? Let us know your picks in the comments section.
Wilshere praised ahead of FA Youth Cup final
Ex-Arsenal defender Per Mertesacker, who's now manager of the club's academy, has heaped praise on colleague Jack Wilshere after guiding the Gunners' under-18 side to the FA Youth Cup final, which will be played at the Emirates on Tuesday night. Mertesacker was involved in handing the role to Wilshere at age 30 and he's thriving - although the German initially had doubts.
"I was praying that Jack would turn up for the interview and be himself," Mertesacker explained. "So that was a moment when the truth came out. It was brilliant to see him presenting himself, what he stands for, what he wants to be like, what coach he wants to be, how he wants to play."
Read the full story HERE.
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