Mikel Arteta is running out of time in his attempt to improve his squad with roughly just two weeks left till the transfer window closes.
Arteta is wary of his side’s weaknesses especially now after they lost their opening match to new boys Brentford.
The Gunners are in dire need for a creative midfielder and more options in attack with both their strikers, Pierre Emerick Aubameyang and Lacazette missing the season opener due to illness.
According to Sky Sports News, European giants Barcelona wanted to secure a move for the Gabon International to Camp Nou and were ready to offer Philippe Coutinho in a swap deal.
However, recent reports by football journalist, Fabrizio Romano have it that Barcelona are no longer interested and given their financial situation, their priority is to offload some excess players.
This is a great blow to Arteta and the Gunners who were looking to offload the forward as he has failed to impress in recent times.
The 32-year-old managed 14 goals last season as Arsenal finished eighth in the league, missing out on Europa League football.
Arsenal renewed Aubameyang’s contract till 2024 last year after a series of superb performances but his form has taken a dive in recent times thus making his exorbitant salary a huge problem for the club.
Meanwhile, Granit Xhaka has signed a 1-year contract extension at the club, keeping him in London till 2024, although Arsenal have an option for an additional year.
The Switzerland international was heavily linked with a move to AS Roma this summer, with the London side willing to cash in on him.
In other news, Arsenal have suffered a blow in their pursuit of Dusan Vlahovic. According to HITC via Gianluca Di Marzio, the Fiorentina striker prefers a move to Tottenham Hotspur, who are also in the race for his signature. The Serbian is wanted by Atletico Madrid too, but they have been unable to agree a deal with the Serie A side.
Arsenal were previously interested in Tammy Abraham and Luataro Martinez. Abraham is all set to join AS Roma, while the Argentine is unlikely to move to the Emirates.
